Dozens protest Thursday over Walker's cuts to BadgerCare

MILWAUKEE -- Dozens of people rallied near 12th and Kilbourn in downtown Milwaukee Thursday afternoon over recent cuts to BadgerCare.

The rally was organized by several groups including "We Are Milwaukee," and "Citizen Action of Wisconsin." The groups say Governor Walker's budget cuts go too far and takes away much needed healthcare for the poor.

The state's Medicaid programs face a $141 million budget shortfall next year. The Walker administration has proposed a number of cuts to plug the gap, including cutting $93 million from BadgerCare Plus.

Those protesting the cuts claim it will rob 60,000 people, most of them children, from receiving adequate healthcare.

"Without adequate healthcare, (Walker) is forcing parents to make a decision that could pit them against whether they provide healthcare for their children, or put food on the table, or a roof over their heads, and enough is enough," Kelly Albrecht, who was denied BadgerCare said Thursday.

"I think the tax cuts given to the big corporations should be no more. Give us the break," Shyquetta McElroy, who is on BadgerCare, said.

State officials say changes must be made because of increasing costs and demand.