Caregiver Designation Bill Would Give Caregivers Peace of Mind

More than 1 million Wisconsinites provide care to a family member or friend with complex medical conditions or disabilities. That’s nearly one quarter (23 percent) of adults across the state. Nearly 60 percent of family caregivers in Wisconsin provide care to someone who has a long-term physical condition.

AARP Wisconsin is in strong support of Senate Bill 795/Assembly Bill 798 authored by Senator Romaine Quinn (R-Birchwood) and Representative Chanz Green (R-Grand View), which would create a caregiver designation option for Wisconsinites as part of their driver’s license or identification card application.

Allowing Wisconsinites to share information with the state Department of Transportation about the individuals for whom they are providing care will offer family caregivers peace of mind and ensure there are no gaps in care if a caregiver is in an accident or has a medical emergency.

AARP’s mission is to help older adults choose how they live as they age. A key part of that work is supporting these family caregivers as they assist their loved ones so they can remain living at home – which is where they want to be.

We would like to thank Senator Quinn and Representative Green for introducing this important legislation, and we’re calling on all state lawmakers to support SB 795/AB 798. You can contact your state senator and state representative to express your support!