MADISON (WKOW) -- The state Senate has approved a bill that would lift a cap to a state program that keeps elderly and disabled people out of nursing homes.
Lawmakers passed the measure unanimously Tuesday to remove an enrollment cap on Family Care and other long-term care programs. State officials would also be able to expand the programs to new counties.
The bill marks a reversal for Gov. Scott Walker, who imposed the enrollment cap last July to save money. The federal government later ordered Walker to lift the cap.
Family Care helps about 43,000 low-income adults with developmental or physical disabilities avoid nursing home placements. Thousands are on a waiting list to enroll.
The bill now moves to the Assembly.
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MADISON (WKOW) -- An unpopular cap to a state program that keeps elderly and disabled people out of nursing homes could be lifted.
The state Senate is scheduled to take up the bill Tuesday. It would remove an enrollment cap on Family Care and other long-term care programs. State officials will also be able to expand the programs to new counties.
Gov. Scott Walker placed the enrollment cap last July to save money. Walker says state officials identified $80 million in savings that enables the lift, but the federal government ordered Walker to lift the cap.
Family Care helps about 43,000 low-income adults with developmental or physical disabilities avoid nursing home placements. Thousands are on a waiting list to enroll.
