Wisconsin Governor Proposes Healthcare Cost Relief Plan

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Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers is urging bipartisan support for a 2026 legislative package aimed at lowering out-of-pocket healthcare costs for state residents. The plan would cap insulin copays at $35, eliminate sales tax on over-the-counter medications, and create new oversight boards to review prescription drug prices. Evers has criticized federal Medicaid cuts and the lapse of Affordable Care Act tax credits, which he says are contributing to rising healthcare costs in 2026.

Why it matters

Healthcare affordability is a major concern for many Wisconsinites, especially as some face higher premiums following the expiration of enhanced ACA tax credits. Evers' proposal aims to provide relief and increase oversight to address rising out-of-pocket costs.

The details

Evers' 2026 legislative package includes capping insulin copays at $35, eliminating sales tax on over-the-counter medications, and creating new oversight boards to review prescription drug prices. The plan also proposes auditing insurers with high claim denial rates, limiting prior authorization requirements, and expanding consumer protections against surprise billing.

• Evers is urging bipartisan support for the 2026 legislative package.

What’s next

The governor will need to work with the state legislature to pass the proposed healthcare cost relief package in 2026.