Today, the U.S. House passed the budget bill, clearing the way for it to be signed into law by the president. This is a heartbreaking moment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), their families, and the communities that support them.

The bill includes deep cuts to Medicaid, which is the main way that people with disabilities get healthcare, home support, services that help them live in the community, and, in many cases, services that keep them alive. Nearly 60 percent of adults with IDD rely on Medicaid for the care they need to live with dignity and independence.

Cutting Medicaid means fewer people able to stay in their homes, longer wait times for care, more hospital visits, more hospital closures, more unnecessary paperwork, and families being left without support.

These changes do not improve care. They take it away. They do not help people live independently. They make that harder. This bill creates barriers, not opportunities.

As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, this bill is a painful reminder that many Americans are still fighting to live freely and safely in their communities. This bill will take away independence from millions of people with disabilities.

IEC (Institute for Exceptional Care) will continue to work with self-advocates, family members, and partners across the country to make sure people with disabilities are not left behind. This bill is a step backwards, but it is not the end of this journey.

To all those people with disabilities who are scared about their future today: We hear you. We see you. You are not alone. Whatever challenges come next, we’ll face them together.

Mai Pham, MD, MPH
President and CEO
Institute for Exceptional Care.

Contact

Dr. Pham is available for interviews or comment. Please contact:

Justin Gero
Communications Manager
jgero@ie-care.org