One state lawmaker says officials are wasting their time trying to extend Wisconsin's SeniorCare program. A federal waiver for SeniorCare is set to expire in June, although the Governor and legislative leaders are working to keep the program going beyond then. State Representative Leah Vukmir (R-Wauwatosa) says that's unlikely, based on how programs in other states have been unable to get renewals.
SeniorCare provides prescription drug benefits to Wisconsinites. Vukmir says the federal Medicare Part D program would be just as effective for many seniors. She thinks the state would be better served getting seniors ready to make the switch before the state program expires.
However, several of her legislative colleagues are lobbying to keep SeniorCare alive. Senate Majority Leader Judy Robson (D-Beloit) and Assembly Speaker Mike Huebsch (R-West Salem) have requested a meeting with U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Michael Leavitt to make the case for keeping the program alive. Several members of the state Congressional delegation are also making similar appeals. Vukmir says she doesn't blame for trying, but feels it's an unrealistic goal.