Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB1014

Introduced
2/9/24  
Refer
2/9/24  
Report Pass
2/16/24  
Engrossed
2/20/24  
Refer
2/20/24  
Refer
2/22/24  
Enrolled
2/23/24  
Vetoed
2/28/24  

Caption

Funding for hospital emergency department services. (FE)

Impact

The implementation of SB1014 is expected to enhance hospital emergency services in the designated counties by providing financial support to health systems that meet specific obligations. This could potentially lead to improved patient outcomes due to better-equipped emergency facilities and increased access to critical healthcare. Additionally, the bill mandates that grant recipients report on their expenditures and the impact of the funding, which aims to create accountability and transparency regarding the use of state funds.

Summary

Senate Bill 1014 pertains to the establishment of grants designed to fund hospital emergency department services in Wisconsin. Specifically, the bill allocates a total of $15,000,000 during the 2023-25 fiscal biennium for health systems that commit to providing emergency services in Chippewa and Eau Claire Counties. These funds are intended to cover capital expenditures related to enhancing the capacity and quality of hospital emergency departments in these regions. The prioritization of grants for Chippewa County indicates a targeted approach to addressing local healthcare needs within the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1014 seems to be primarily positive, especially from community members and healthcare advocates who recognize the importance of robust emergency services. The bill is viewed as a proactive measure to address local healthcare challenges and ensure that residents have access to essential medical care. However, there may be some dissent regarding prioritization, as stakeholders from non-prioritized regions might express concern over perceived inequities in funding distribution.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise over the prioritization of grants to Chippewa County, which could lead to debates about equitable distribution of healthcare resources across all counties in Wisconsin. Some lawmakers or advocacy groups might argue for a broader allocation strategy that addresses the needs of other underfunded areas in the state. Furthermore, the stipulation that funded improvements should specifically enhance emergency services might draw scrutiny regarding potential limitations on how the funds could be used within the operations of grant-awarded health systems.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI AB1078

Funding for hospital emergency department services. (FE)

WI SB1015

Transfer from the state building trust fund to the general fund, funding for grants to support hospital emergency department services, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB1164

Hospitals: emergency departments: crowding score.

WI HB312

Hospitals, private hospital assessment and Medicaid funding program extended for fiscal year 2028

WI SB1092

Emergency Services - Funding

WI HB1439

Emergency Services - Funding

WI AB1077

Transfer from the state building trust fund to the general fund, funding for grants to support hospital emergency department services, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI HB2754

Public health; State Department of Health; Oklahoma Rural Hospitals Funding Assistance Grant Program Act of 2025; Oklahoma Rural Hospitals Funding Assistance Grant Program; Oklahoma Rural Hospitals Funding Assistance Grant Program Revolving Fund; effective date; emergency.

WI HB353

Hospitals; emergency departments to have at least one licensed physician on duty at all times.

WI SB392

Hospitals; emergency departments to have at least one licensed physician on duty at all times.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.