Press Release  Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council Hosts Medicaid Forum for Massachusetts Delegation

QUINCY, Mass. — The Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC) hosted a virtual information session for Massachusetts’ federal lawmakers focusing on Medicaid and the impact of potential threats on Thursday. Council Members and staff were joined by staffers from each Representative and Senators’ office as well as Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA.)

At the heart of the conversation was the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), and how their lives would change if any cuts to Medicaid funding were to come to fruition. Council Members had the opportunity to share their stories on how Medicaid has allowed them and their families to live meaningful, self-directed lives in their communities. “I want to be part of my community, just like anybody else. We deserve a place in the world, and I need my Medicaid services to help me live my life,” said Austin Carr, a Citizen Member of the MDDC who experiences Cerebral Palsy.

In an impassioned speech to attendees, Sen. Markey reaffirmed his commitment to the IDD community. “I'm going to lead the fight against any cuts to Medicaid, it's an absolute guarantee that should be out there for everyone,” said Markey. “Any cut that makes it harder to get healthcare services is too big of a cut,” he added.

The House of Representatives has passed a budget measure that could include up to $880 billion in cuts to Medicaid programs. Cuts to Medicaid would have the most impact on those receiving Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) and those who became eligible for Medicaid following the 2014 expansion. For many people living with IDD, Medicaid is their lifeline to accessing their communities. According to statistics from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), two in nine adults aged 19-64, four in nine people with disabilities, three in five nursing home residents and one in three children are enrolled in MassHealth, the Commonwealth’s Medicaid program.

The MDDC will continue to meet with and educate lawmakers at both the State and Federal levels on how proposed changes to systems will impact the lives of people with IDD.

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