Lawmakers unveil COVID-19 bill

Lawmakers are planning to take up a bill this week that would make temporary changes to make Wisconsin eligible for at least $300 million in federal Medicaid money

and waive certain legislative oversight requirements for Medicaid changes in response to the COVID-19 emergency.

The bill

would also put in place insurance protections, including ensuring that those with coverage don’t have to pay more for care provided by out-of-network providers. It would also provide liability exemptions for medical supply companies and immunity for healthcare providers addressing the outbreak.

The measure would also cut the hours needed to become a certified nursing assistant so they align with federal requirements. And it would allow pharmacists to extend prescription orders, cover vaccinations under SeniorCare and create a Medicaid payment program to incentivize participation in a health information exchange.

The legislation would also make various licensure changes, including allowing for temporary credentials for former and out-of-state healthcare providers. It would let the Joint Finance Committee transfer $75 million during the emergency.

Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, said they took into consideration the governor’s proposals, legislation passed by Congress and input from both parties in the Legislature.

“This bill extends a lifeline to the recently unemployed and provides the Joint Finance Committee flexibility to respond to future challenges caused by COVID-19,” Fitzgerald said in a statement. “There is no such thing as a perfect piece of legislation, but action is desperately needed right now.”

He said they plan to move forward with a vote on the bill in the chamber Wednesday. The Assembly plans to meet Tuesday.

Gov. Tony Evers told reporters Monday that he hadn’t seen the bill. He said he agreed with previous drafts that lifted a waiting period for unemployment benefits and made changes so Wisconsin can qualify for the enhanced federal Medicaid match.

The Department of Health Services reported

87 new cases of COVID-19 Monday, bringing the total to 3,428 positive tests. There have been 154 deaths and 36,769 negative tests.

The alternative care facility at State Fair Park also announced its leadership team on Monday.

Its CEO will be Debra Standridge, a former Ascension Wisconsin regional president. Dr. Cory Wilson of Emergency Medicine Specialists will be chief medical officer. Tim Richman will serve as chief operating officer, Patricia Schroeder will be chief nursing officer and Celia Shaughnessy will be chief human resources officer.

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