LeadingAge Wisconsin applauds JFC action to increase funding for state’s long-term care programs

MADISON, WI – LeadingAge Wisconsin praises the actions of the Joint Finance Committee (JFC) last
evening in making significant investments in the state’s Medicaid long-term care programs and services.

“The Committee’s actions represent a significant and much appreciated movement to address the
challenges facing the long-term care provider community,” said John Sauer, LeadingAge Wisconsin
President/CEO. “Increasing Medicaid and Family Care payments is critical to ensuring Wisconsin citizens have access to high-quality care and services and to address the workforce and financial crisis confronting nursing facilities, assisted living facilities and other long-term care providers. LeadingAge Wisconsin’s member organizations voice their full support of the Committee’s actions,” said Sauer.

The motion to increase the funding was introduced by Co-Chairs John Nygren (R-Marinette) and Alberta Darling (R-River Hills) and passed by a vote of 11-4. The Committee is comprised of 16 Assembly and Senate members withd of twelve Republicans and four Democrats.

The highlights of the motion approved by the Committee include:

• $74 million (GPR/FED) over the biennium to increase Medicaid reimbursement for Nursing
  Homes.
• $67 million (GPR/FED) over the biennium to enhance Family Care Direct Care funding.
• $91 million (GPR/FED) over the biennium to increase Medicaid reimbursement for Personal Care
  services.

John Sauer concluded by stating, “LeadingAge Wisconsin would like to thank Representative Nygren, State Senator Darling and all of the Committee members. The increase in funding reflects the Legislature’s commitment to the programs and services that are necessary to to serve Wisconsin’s elderly and persons with disabilities and will make a lasting impact the lives of those who live and work in the State’s long-term care system.”

* * * *
LeadingAge Wisconsin is comprised of more than 200 mission-driven member organizations, including nursing facilities, facilities for the developmentally disabled, independent and assisted living facilities, and community service agencies. Statewide, LeadingAge Wisconsin members employ over 38,000 people who provide compassionate care to more than 48,000 individuals daily.