In October, WiHPCA unveiled a list of state legislators selected as “Champions of Hospice and Palliative Care” and “Friends of Hospice and Palliative Care” for the 2025-2026 state legislative session.  At the completion of each two-year legislative session, WiHPCA identifies an exclusive group of lawmakers who have shown exceptional support to address the priorities of hospice and palliative care agencies and staff throughout Wisconsin. 

For the 2025-2026 legislative session, both state Representative Patrick Snyder (R-Wausau) and state Senator Jesse James (R-Thorp) were selected as “Champions of Hospice and Palliative Care” as they both introduced and advocated for legislation creating a state palliative care council – the top policy priority for WiHPCA. A WiHPCA representative presented Rep. Snyder with an award plaque, which is shown in a photo below.

In addition, the following legislators received the “Friend of Hospice and Palliative Care” designation due to their support of legislation creating a state palliative care council:

• State Sen. Rachael Cabral-Guevara (R-Fox Crossing)
  o   She voted to advance the Palliative Care Council bill in the Senate Health Committee, of which she serves as chair.

• State Rep. Clint Moses (R-Menomonie)
  o   He voted to advance the Palliative Care Council bill in the Assembly Health Committee, of which he serves as chair.

• Rep. Lisa Subeck (D-Madison)
  o   She voted to advance the Palliative Care Council bill in the Assembly Health Committee and co-sponsored this bill.

• Sen. Jeff Smith (D-Brunswick)
  o   He voted to advance the Palliative Care Council bill in the Senate Health Committee.

WiHPCA Government Relations Director Tim Hoven (right) presenting the Champion of Hospice and Palliative Care award to state Rep. Patrick Snyder (left)