TO: NDSC Members and Affiliated Parent Groups 
FROM: Susan Goodman, Director Governmental Affairs
DATE: November 10, 2008

Economic Downturn Further Threatens Services

Medicaid pays for most adult services for individuals with Down syndrome and many services for children through Medicaid waiver programs. This includes support services needed for individuals to live in their own homes, work and take advantage of all of the opportunities for community life available to non-disabled individuals.

The Medicaid program is funded through a federal-state partnership. The amount paid by the federal government to states is called the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) – this is the rate used to determine the amount of matching funds. During budget shortfalls, states often try to decrease the amount they pay for Medicaid services. This can directly impact the quality of life for people with disabilities.

The National Governors Association (NGA) has asked Congress to temporarily enhance the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) for at least two years. The increase in the FMAP would be part of an economic stimulus package that will probably be considered during a lame duck session of Congress this week.

According to a letter from the NGA to Congressional leaders, “funding for FMAP is a particularly effective countercyclical tool because it immediately allows Governors to eliminate planned budget cuts required to meet balanced budget requirements and continue services for those with the greatest need.”

We will keep you posted on future developments.

Roundtable on Economic Empowerment

Susan Goodman, NDSC Governmental Affairs Director, attended a two-day roundtable sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor on employment for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This event was attended by representatives of national disability organizations, representatives from states who have developed employment opportunities for individuals, university researchers and other individuals who are nationally recognized for their work in this area.

This roundtable was a result of the advocacy efforts of the Collaboration to Promote Self-Determination which includes NDSC, NDSS, The ARC/United Cerebral Palsy, the Autism Society of America, the Association of University Centers for Disabilities, the Fragile X Foundation and Easter Seals. A report is expected to be issued with recommendations about supporting individuals with disabilities in obtaining and maintaining meaningful employment.

If you have questions or comments about this Newsline, please contact Susan Goodman at susan@ndsccenter.org.