Congress must hear from you now. Tell your Representative: Reject Medicaid cuts in the Budget Reconciliation process and protect home and community-based services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
The Details
The House Energy and Commerce Committee passed health care cuts that amount to at least $715 billion, posing a direct and serious threat to Medicaid funding.
If these cuts move forward, they would:
- Shift Medicaid costs to states, forcing cuts to provider rates or essential services.
- Jeopardize access to home and community-based services (HCBS) for individuals with I/DD—resulting in longer waitlists, fewer services, and increased institutionalization.
- Further destabilize the disability services workforce, making it harder for providers to meet demand in their communities.
These are not just policy numbers, they represent real people. People whose independence, access to care, and quality of life are on the line.
Begin writing your comment directly below the section labeled “Message Body.” Personalized messages are far more impactful than generic ones. Here’s how to strengthen yours:
1. Personal Introduction
Start by introducing yourself as someone connected to or working with the I/DD community. Share your role and commitment to protecting Medicaid.
Example: “My name is Rosa, and I’ve worked for 15 years supporting adults with developmental disabilities in community-based housing programs.”
2. Share a Personal Story
Describe how Medicaid directly impacts your life or work. Make the issue tangible.
Example: “Because of Medicaid, the people I support are able to live in their own homes, go to work, and remain part of their communities. If funding is cut, many of them would lose that independence.”
3. Explain What’s at Risk
Reference specific threats like block grants, per-capita caps, reduced FMAP, or the elimination of enhanced HCBS funding—and connect those to local consequences.
Example: “If Medicaid is cut, our state would be forced to scale back optional services like HCBS. We’re already understaffed and can’t afford more reductions. These changes would mean longer waitlists and more people pushed into institutions.”
Remember: your story shows lawmakers what’s at stake in real human terms. Keep it focused, personal, and direct.