Rep. Jorgenson
The state’s program to help seniors with prescription drug costs is due for changes, under provisions in Governor Scott Walker’s proposed 2015-’17 budget. Walker is trying for a second time to reduce what the state spends on SeniorCare.
“It’s almost word for word what he tried to do in 2011,” said state Representative Andy Jorgenson (D-Milton). “The governor is trying to push seniors onto Medicare Part D. He’s also going to defund SeniorCare by $15 million.”
Language in Walker’s proposed budget would have SeniorCare enrollees getting medications through Medicare Part-D, and use SeniorCare to get medicines that Part-D doesn’t cover. Jorgensen said he’s starting a petition drive similar to one in 2011, in which more than 14,000 seniors and others pushed to keep SeniorCare as it is.
“My hope is that it shouldn’t make sense to do this,” he said. “In the past this has been something that’s sacred to both parties.”