MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Wisconsin's SeniorCare prescription drug program for senior citizens has been granted another waiver from the federal government to continue operating until at least 2015.

The waiver is needed so the state can run the program outside of Medicare Part D. The current waiver was granted in 2009 and set to expire at the end of the year.

Gov. Scott Walker announced the renewal Thursday.

The program began in 2002 and provides discounted prescription drugs for Wisconsin residents who are 65 years old or older and meet eligibility criteria. There is a $30 annual enrollment fee with copayments ranging from $5 to $15.

SeniorCare is wildly popular largely because there are no gaps in coverage it is more comprehensive and less expensive than Medicare Part D.