As the Republican-Led Government Shutdown Continues, the Pain Only Compounds for Wisconsinites

Today is the beginning of open enrollment on HealthCare.gov, where Wisconsinites will shop for plans based on rates that do not account for critical ACA premium subsidies, which saved Americans thousands in health care costs each year. It’s also the first day that 700,000 Wisconsinites will miss their November FoodShare benefits if the Administration fails to follow the recent court rulings ordering it to use existing SNAP funds and authority to do so. In response, Congresswoman Moore released the following statement:

“Today is November 1st. It marks the beginning of ACA open enrollment, where Wisconsinites and Americans across the country will feel the sticker shock of Republican inaction. Without premium subsidies, these costs will increase, sometimes tripling for Wisconsinites across the state. As they shop for plans, families will be forced to pay more for the coverage they need, and some may be forced to forgo health care altogether.

This comes as the Administration unlawfully refused to use SNAP emergency contingency funding, meaning 700,000 Wisconsinites will be deprived of their November benefits. Families will wonder how they will keep food on the table. Food banks will be stretched beyond capacity. This didn’t have to happen. Even if the Administration complies with the court order, it will likely take some time for states to load benefits for recipients. If it appeals, it only further denies needed food assistance to hungry Americans.

Meanwhile, the President is busy updating the public on his marble bathroom renovations and House Republicans remain on vacation for a fifth straight week. Rising health care, housing, and food costs are realities for too many of my constituents which is why I am fighting for a bipartisan end to this shutdown. Democrats will continue pushing for Republicans to address the health care crisis and pressing the Trump administration to use its contingency funding and authority to keep food on the table for 42 million Americans.”

Republican Inaction Creating Health Care Crisis

Examples of Health Care Spikes in Wisconsin

• On average, a 60-year-old Wisconsinite making just over $63,000 per year will face a $10,568 increase in their health insurance premium.
• On average, a 40-year-old Wisconsinite making around $65,000 will see their annual premium increase $2,057.

Wisconsinites Who Will Face Disruption of FoodShare Benefits in November

• SNAP (FoodShare) serves 700,000 Wisconsinites, an estimated 1 in 8 residents.
• In Wisconsin, there are 18,000 veterans who depend on FoodShare.
• More than 60 percent of Wisconsinites who depend on FoodShare are in families with children.
• More than 36 percent of Wisconsinites who depend on FoodShare are in families with seniors or individuals with disabilities.
• More than 45 percent of Wisconsinites who depend on FoodShare are in working families.

Constituents in need of food should visit MKE County webpage for assistance.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.