Lil’€™ Fitz Proves the More Things Change’€¦

Newly-minted Assembly Minority Leader Jeff Fitzgerald was barely installed as the official leader of his Republican caucus before letting us know his agenda is to protect big insurance companies ahead of Wisconsin children and families.

Asked about common sense legislation to require insurance companies to cover treatment for autism and hearing aids and cochlear implants for children, Fitzgerald registered his opposition. Reiterated, may be more accurate.

After all it was the then-Republican controlled Assembly which kowtowed to insurance companies in blocking the autism bill just last session.

This despite autism become a national epidemic, affecting as many as one in 150 children. Medical experts agree — early intervention is critical. The cost is minimal.

As a side note, Fitzgerald has received almost $14,000 from the insurance industry since 2000, according to the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign.

Now that Fitzgerald and his cronies are no longer in charge, looks like some decent, family-friendly legislation is going to pass out of the State Assembly at long last.