What's New at WAFCC?
Governor Evers Signs 2023-2024 Biennial Budget - FCC Grant Increase Approved!
On July 5th, Governor Tony Evers signed the 2023-25 Biennial Wisconsin Budget. Included in the budget was an annual increase to $2.25M for Wisconsin’s Free and Charitable Clinics (FCCs). This is a $775k increase from the previous annual allotment of $1.5M. This bill represents months of hard work on the part of WAFCC, Wisconsin FCCs, and those who support our mission.
In support of this increased funding, WAFCC and FCC Leaders met with over 28 Legislators since December ’22. Additionally, they testified at several public hearings including 3 of the 4 Joint Finance Committee Hearings held throughout the month of April. They shared patient impact stories while elaborating on the ways in which increased funding would help to maintain operations, build capacity, and provide higher levels of care to patients. To conclude this round of advocacy, WAFCC hosted its annual Advocacy Day at the State Capitol, where representatives from 23 FCCs visited 18 Wisconsin Legislative offices. Thank you to everyone who was able to attend!
We want to thank State Representative Todd Novak and Senator Patrick Testin, who sponsored and fought hard for our motion. It would not have passed without their support! Additionally, Senator Devin LeMahieu and his Chief of Staff, Jennifer Malcore, also played an important role in advocating for FCCs. WAFCC also received professional guidance and generous support from our pro-bono lobbying firm - Foley & Lardner. Jason Childress and Alicia Schweitzer provided invaluable knowledge, guidance and contact with state legislators throughout this initiative.
While WAFCC’s original goal was to secure $3M annually for FCCs, a $775k increase in funding written into state statute is a feat in itself. This accomplishment could not have been achieved without the dedication and persistence shown by free and charitable clinic supporters and advocates. Thank you!
In support of this increased funding, WAFCC and FCC Leaders met with over 28 Legislators since December ’22. Additionally, they testified at several public hearings including 3 of the 4 Joint Finance Committee Hearings held throughout the month of April. They shared patient impact stories while elaborating on the ways in which increased funding would help to maintain operations, build capacity, and provide higher levels of care to patients. To conclude this round of advocacy, WAFCC hosted its annual Advocacy Day at the State Capitol, where representatives from 23 FCCs visited 18 Wisconsin Legislative offices. Thank you to everyone who was able to attend!
We want to thank State Representative Todd Novak and Senator Patrick Testin, who sponsored and fought hard for our motion. It would not have passed without their support! Additionally, Senator Devin LeMahieu and his Chief of Staff, Jennifer Malcore, also played an important role in advocating for FCCs. WAFCC also received professional guidance and generous support from our pro-bono lobbying firm - Foley & Lardner. Jason Childress and Alicia Schweitzer provided invaluable knowledge, guidance and contact with state legislators throughout this initiative.
While WAFCC’s original goal was to secure $3M annually for FCCs, a $775k increase in funding written into state statute is a feat in itself. This accomplishment could not have been achieved without the dedication and persistence shown by free and charitable clinic supporters and advocates. Thank you!
Just the Facts
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