Empowering Members Through Biohealth Advocacy
BioForward’s advocacy efforts are designed to directly benefit biohealth companies in Wisconsin. By educating policymakers and actively engaging in legislative activities, we ensure policies that support industry growth and innovation are prioritized. By being part of BioForward, members gain a powerful ally dedicated to their success and the growth of the entire biohealth ecosystem.
Latest Legislative Activities
We actively engage in legislative activities to influence policies that support the growth and success of Wisconsin’s biohealth industry.
The Expansion of Sales and Use Tax Exemption to CRO's (AB 670 and SB 654)
AB 670 passed the State Assembly on February 20th. This legislation sponsored by Sen Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green) and Rep David Armstrong (R-Rice Lake) would extend Wisconsin’s sales and use tax exemption on the purchase of machinery and equipment used exclusively and directly in qualified research to contract research organizations (CRO’s). Both AB 670 and SB 654 have had hearings, must be reviewed by Jt Finance before being scheduled for a floor vote.
Supplemental Breast Cancer Screening (2025 Wisconsin Act 103)
2025 Wisconsin Act 103. Supported. Required health insurance policies to fully cover medically necessary supplemental breast screenings or diagnostic breast examinations for those with dense breasts or who are at an increased risk of breast cancer.
R&D Tax Credit Increase in Carryover Period (2025 Wisconsin Act 220)
Allows claimants of research income and franchise tax credit to carry over unused research credits for 50 years until they are used to offset tax liability in future years. Changed from 15 years
SBIR/STTR Reauthorization
SBIR/STTR legislation has passed both the Houseand Senate providing funding through 2031.Waiting for final approval.
Most Favored Nation Pricing
HR 7837 adopting foreign price controls would jeopardize patient access to innovative medicines. The absence of price controls in the U.S. leads to more and newer medicines made available sooner to Americans, with better health outcomes for those with serious diseases.
Biopharmaceutical innovation depends on long-term, high-risk investments. But MFN policies that tie U.S. prices to those set by foreign governments fundamentally reshape investment decisions and discourage the development of new medicines. Drug development often takes more than a decade and billions of dollars before patients see a new treatment. MFN imposes price ceilings by importing foreign government price controls, which can reduce the predictability of future revenues and results in fewer companies being able to attract the capital required to fund early-stage research. This can narrow the pipeline of new medicines before they ever reach patients.
National Biotechnology Initiative Act (H.R. 2756)
A whole of government approach to advancingbiotechnology for U.S. national security, economic productivity, andcompetitiveness. The legislation would establish a National BiotechnologyCoordination Office within the Executive Office of the President to lead andcoordinate federal biotechnology efforts.
Advocacy Insights
Stay updated with the latest advocacy news and insights. We share important developments and policy changes affecting the biohealth industry, ensuring our members are well-informed.
Discover the remarkable growth and innovation of Wisconsin’s biohealth industry.
The information policymakers need to support a thriving industry driving Wisconsin’s economic recovery.
The information policymakers need to support a thriving industry driving Wisconsin’s economic recovery.
This legislation ensures that copay assistance counts toward patients' out-of-pocket costs, preventing insurers from excluding these payments from deductibles.
Government Affairs Committee
Our Government Affairs Committee represents member interests, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are addressed at every level of government.
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Find Your Legislators & Legislative Committees
Stay informed and make your voice heard. BioForward periodically issues legislative alerts, encouraging members to contact their senators or representatives on critical biohealth industry issues. Locate your legislators using our interactive map and get involved today.
