Last week, the Wisconsin State Senate approved a bill (Senate Bill 487). This bill would require self-funded plans to report specific data on enrollees and would enable DHS to identify Medical Assistance recipients that are also covered under employer plans. The bill is expected to be taken up in the Assembly today. We expect it to pass and that it will be signed into law by Governor Walker in the following weeks.

An earlier alert explains the bill in more detail and also explains an amendment proposed by DHS to address concerns we raised from our employer members.

One change included in the amendment is a delay in the effective date of the new requirement. This would allow time for a task force of employers to work with DHS to recommend efficiencies in how the data is collected. A number of member representatives have volunteered to participate on this task force, which will meet for the first time on Monday, March 19 from 2 - 3 p.m.

If you are interested in participating on this task force, you can still do so. Please email me so we can provide you with the details. Participation is available via conference call.

We thank all members who have provided input on this bill. Your activism is truly appreciated.

If you have any questions, please let me know.