Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB249

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/8/23
• Refer: 5/8/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Expanding Wisconsin Works eligibility for at-risk pregnancy. (FE)

Impact

The proposed changes to the eligibility criteria for Wisconsin Works will potentially provide a safety net for a larger group of women facing challenging circumstances during pregnancy. By allowing custodial parents of dependent children to qualify for benefits regardless of their marital status and stage of pregnancy, the bill addresses the intersection of caregiving and reproductive health. This shift is designed to support women who may struggle with workforce participation due to the additional responsibilities and challenges of being a parent during a high-risk pregnancy.

Summary

Assembly Bill 249 aims to expand eligibility for Wisconsin Works benefits to include women who are custodial parents of dependent children and are experiencing an at-risk pregnancy. Previously, only unmarried women in their third trimester of pregnancy could qualify for these benefits if they were not custodial parents. The amendment to the statute reflects a significant change in how the state recognizes the needs of pregnant women who are also responsible for dependent children, thereby broadening access to support and resources for this population.

Contention

While the bill seems to garner support for its humanitarian implications, potential points of contention may arise from discussions around funding and resource allocation for the expanded eligibility under Wisconsin Works. Some stakeholders might raise concerns about the impact on the state’s budget and the sustainability of extending these benefits to a larger population. Additionally, there might be debates regarding the criteria for determining 'at-risk' pregnancies, which could lead to discussions about medical oversight and the implications for healthcare providers.