Ohioans with Disabilities Must Continue to Rally Against Proposed Medicaid Cuts
Ohio disability advocates are stressing the urgency for our community to unite in defense of Medicaid, emphasizing its role as a lifeline for countless individuals who could not stay in the community without it.
In recent years, numerous Ohioans with disabilities have vigorously campaigned for increased funding for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) within the state budget. Their efforts have successfully led to a rise in the average wage of Direct Service Providers to $18 an hour, as reported by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities. However, this progress is now at risk due to potential federal budget cuts.
The federal budget proposal currently under consideration includes significant reductions to Medicaid, a critical program that supports individuals with disabilities by allowing them to live independently in their communities. Congress is reviewing measures that could decrease funding, impose work requirements, and limit access to essential services such as personal care, HCBS, medical equipment, and more. These changes threaten to strip many people with disabilities of their ability to live in their chosen communities and may result in a return to institutionalization.
The opportunities for public engagement and commentary on the proposed cuts that are currently underway are described below.
The Ohio Medicaid Matters Coalition is actively seeking personal stories from those affected by potential Medicaid reductions. Individuals can visit Ohio Medicaid Matters to share their experiences.
Additionally, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is inviting public comment on a federal rule aimed at closing a healthcare-related tax loophole for Medicaid waivers. The comment period remains open until July 14, 2025. More information is available on the Federal Register.
Furthermore, the Department of Medicaid’s Home- and Community-Based Services Policy Section is seeking feedback on a proposal concerning nursing facility-based level of care residential settings. Public comments will be accepted from May 20, 2025, through June 19, 2025. Details can be found on the Ohio Medicaid website.
These platforms provide vital avenues for Ohioans to voice concerns and contribute to safeguarding Medicaid, ensuring it continues to support those who rely on it for independence and community integration. If protecting the right of people with disabilities to live and participate in the community we choose is important to you, please utilize these opportunities to share your story and let legislators know why Medicaid is important. Your voice is now more important than ever before.
