Wisconsin is the first state to expand access to an array of free reproductive and sexual health programs for its lowest income residents including young people. From family planning to sexually transmitted infection testing, Wisconsin's Medicaid program, in partnership with the federal government, will now be offering these programs to all residents, 15 to 44 years old, who fall within 300% of the federal poverty level.

It's great news! Not only does expanded access to contraception and STI services save lives and improve health, it actually saves money. When you ensure access to preventative health care like pregnancy and STI prevention, you save money on birth related costs, health care costs, and more - in the millions of dollars for the state and even billions of dollars when it comes to a cost savings for the federal government.

So, why are incoming Republicans in Wisconsin so adamant about stripping these health care services for the state's lower income residents? From Governor-elect Scott Walker to Joint Finance Committee Member, Senator Glenn Grothman, Republicans are calling for the program to be "pared down" or even stripped altogether.

Expanding the Medicaid program which will increase access to tools that will help prevent pregnancy and STIs for young people in particular - but for all Wisconsin residents who cannot afford to pay for care themselves - is smart public policy and it's the right thing to do.

The state's Joint Finance Committee will be in charge of implementing the expansion of the program - but with a majority of Republicans on the Committee, the expanded program is in danger of being cut. Tell the commitee members to protect the health and lives of Wisconsin's young people - and ensure access to necessary reproductive and sexual health care for all, regardless of ability to pay!