Speaker Vos Begins Session with Focus on Second COVID Relief Bill

January 4, 2021

During the inauguration of the 105^th Wisconsin State Assembly at the state Capitol, Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) announced action will be taken immediately on a second COVID Relief Bill.

“The proposal we are introducing today has over 44 provisions to help fight the virus and reopen our economy,” said Speaker Vos. “The bill was negotiated with the Senate and includes many items from our bipartisan discussions with the Governor. I urge my legislative colleagues to join together to approve the bill and provide the help Wisconsinites need.”

Assembly Bill 1 includes the following provisions:

• Coverage of vaccinations under SeniorCare
• Continued collection and reporting of public health emergency data
• Civil liability exemption for schools, local governments and nonprofits relating to COVID-19 claims
• Full-time open enrollment application extension
• School board reports on virtual instruction
• School board requirements for virtual instruction
• Requirement for an Unemployment Insurance plan to address claims backlog
• Legislative oversight of federal COVID-19 funds
• Nursing home or assisted living facility visitation by an essential visitor
• Prescription order extensions
• Practice of emergency medical services personnel and providers with credentials from outside the state
• Practice by health care providers from other states
• Coverage of COVID-19 testing and vaccination without cost sharing
• Coverage limits on certain prescription drugs
• Transfer of moneys from sum sufficient appropriations up to $100 million
• Authorizing first- and second-year pharmacy students to administer vaccines
• Authorizing dentists to administer COVID-19 and flu vaccines
• Optional registration of third-party logistics providers

The COVID Relief Bill is currently being circulated for co-sponsors with the intent for an Assembly floor vote this week. The Assembly Committee on Health has scheduled a public hearing and executive session on the legislation on Tuesday.

“We are putting this legislation on the fast track; our state needs to have more tools to fight the coronavirus,” said Speaker Vos. “Even though vaccines are being distributed, our battle with COVID-19 is far from over.”

With the coronavirus relief response as the top priority, the new legislative session begins with 16 new representatives. Assembly Republicans hold a 60-38 majority with one seat vacant due to a recent retirement.

“It’s a privilege to represent Racine County for another term in the Assembly. I’m excited to once again have the opportunity to serve on their behalf,” said Speaker Vos. “I plan to focus on the health and well-being of my constituents and protect the best-interests of Wisconsin taxpayers.”

Speaker Vos has represented the 63^rd Assembly District since 2005.