Assembly Republicans are rolling out plans to put "Patients First" in Wisconsin's healthcare system. Several initiatives from GOP lawmakers are aimed at improving access to medical care and educating the public about healthy living. Assembly Speaker Mike Huebsch (R-West Salem) says they want to focus on patients' rights, so they can make sure the public has a say in determining the future of healthcare in our country.
A package of bills unveiled Wednesday at the Capitol include legislation from State Rep. Leah Vukmir (R-Wauwatosa), which would eliminate state taxes on contributions to Health Savings Accounts. Other proposals include deductions for health insurance premiums, tax credits for workplace wellness programs, and promoting electronic medical records.
Democrats have been quick to attack the plans. State Senator Jon Erpenbach (D-Middleton), who chairs the Health and Human Services committee, says they do little to help the average Wisconsinite. He says many of the proposals will just mean a $1.3 billion tax break for the insurance industry, without bring costs down for consumers.
Republicans plan to roll out several of their healthcare reform bills in the coming session.