Intellectual and developmental disability services brace for potential Medicaid cuts

Capitol News Illinois / Andrew Adams

Intellectual and developmental disability service providers in Illinois are warning that proposed federal budget cuts to Medicaid — part of broader spending reductions being debated in Congress — could jeopardize critical supports for people with disabilities who rely on the program for health care and community-based services. Advocates and organizations say Medicaid is the primary funding source for these services, and reductions could lead to fewer supports, longer waitlists, and increased reliance on institutional care.

Leaders from groups serving children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have expressed deep concern about the potential impact on quality of life and access to care if federal funding shrinks, noting that Medicaid cuts could affect everything from respite care to medical services and further strain an already stretched system.