03/07/2008
NFIB victory! Assembly approves key healthcare reform legislation
Assembly Bill 47, the NFIB-backed proposal that would extend state tax advantages to health savings accounts, was approved by the Assembly late Wednesday night. Introduced by Neenah NFIB-member Rep. Dean Kaufert, the bill passed the Assembly 60-35 and was immediately messaged to the Senate.
Assembly Bill 872, also approved by the Assembly, introduced by Rep. Leah Vukmir, would require medical providers disclose to their patients the cost of medical procedures.
2008 Member Ballot results show 82 percent of our members support this legislation.
Members of the Assembly received notice that both bills were Key Small Business Issues as part of the NFIB's 2008 Legislative Agenda.
Healthy Wisconsin returns
The Healthy Wisconsin proposal is about to make another run as standalone legislation.
Sen. Jon Erpenbach, has introduced Senate Bill 562, and a public hearing has been scheduled for Monday, March 10.
The proposal is similar to the budget amendment version with a couple exceptions:
- In response to the concerns of small business, employers with 10 or fewer employees will have a three year phase-in before they are required to pay the full payroll amendment -- one-third of the cost the first year, the second year they will pay two-thirds of the cost, and the third year they will pay the full cost. Also, any business start-up within the first three years will also be granted the same three year phase-in.
- Assessments on the income of two-earner households will be capped at 4 percent of the maximum for social security.
Although it is highly unlikely Senate Bill 562 will be approved by the Senate and Assembly during these final days of the general floor period, we need to continue to generate strong opposition from the small business community. Members willing to testify Monday are encouraged to contact the NFIB/Wisconsin office at 608-255-6083.
Public hearing
The Senate Committee on Health, Human Services, Insurance and Job Creation will meet March 10, 10 a.m., Room 411 South at the State capitol.
