FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, January 16, 2018

Contact: State Representative Mike Rohrkaste, (608) 266-5719

Breast Density Notification Bill Approved by Assembly

Madison, WI – Today, legislation authored by State Representative Mike Rohrkaste (R-Neenah) which requires facilities that perform mammograms to provide a notice to women regarding dense breast tissue passed the state Assembly unanimously. The legislation was brought to Representative Rohrkaste’s attention by a resident of the 55th Assembly District, Gail Zeamer.

“Breast density notification legislation has already been enacted in many states, and because of the Assembly’s vote today, it is one step closer to becoming a reality in Wisconsin,” said Rep. Rohrkaste. “I would like to thank my Assembly colleagues who voted in favor of this important legislation, and I would especially like to thank my constituent, Gail Zeamer, for bringing this legislation forward.”

Assembly Bill 653 requires facilities that perform mammograms to provide a notice to women regarding dense breast tissue if they have heterogeneously or extremely dense breast tissue. The notification would be provided on a federally-mandated summary of mammography results which is already sent to women after their mammogram. The goal of the notification is to raise women’s awareness regarding breast density and to ensure they have the information necessary to discuss their breast health with health-care providers. Currently, 31 states require some form of reporting to women regarding breast density, and several more are considering legislation.

“This legislation will lead to earlier detection, prevention, and awareness of breast cancer in women,” said Rep. Rohrkaste. “I am proud to have introduced this bill and look forward to providing Wisconsin women with important information regarding their health.”

Senate Bill 543, the Senate companion to Assembly Bill 653, still awaits a public hearing and executive session in the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services. To learn more about Gail Zeamer’s personal story, Rep. Rohrkaste has released a video that can be found on his Facebook page at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/RepRohrkaste/.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email