This week, State Senate Democrats continued their Affordable Wisconsin Tour, hosting roundtables focused on the Affordable Care Act and the expiration of tax credits that are set to make healthcare more expensive for 300,000 Wisconsinites. Legislators visited communities all over the state, Oregon, La Crosse, Milwaukee, and Appleton, hearing from to families, farmers, small business owners and veterans about the challenges they face accessing affordable care.
In a recent Marquette Poll, 60% said they are “very concerned” about health insurance. This came out before the premium hikes went into effect— a concern that is only expected to grow as premiums rise and coverage is lost.
Regardless of region or background: families are worried about skyrocketing premiums and are concerned they won’t be able to afford the care they need. Community members shared numerous stories about discovering how much their healthcare premiums had jumped and the anxiety of not knowing whether or not their family will continue being insured.
The feedback from these roundtables will inform the Senate Democrats’ broader Affordable Wisconsin Agenda, ensuring that policies reflect the real needs of Wisconsinites. The goal continues to be a healthcare system that allows everyone in Wisconsin to access affordable care without the stress that their costs will jump or their coverage will be revoked.