Questions to Ask Counties About
the Impact of Federal Budget Reconciliation

The federal Deficit Reduction Act (DRA) passed earlier this year has challenged those concerned with the quality of life and opportunities for people with developmental disabilities and county officials alike. Supports that are partly or fully funded by counties have been crucial to people with developmental disabilities. For example, respite care has provided relief to families in stress. Semi-Independent Living Services (SILS) have helped people who don't need 24-hour support remain in the community by assisting with money management, household chores, and self-care. Recreation programs help prevent isolation. Day training supports those not funded under typical Medical Assistance programs, helps them develop vocational and daily living skills, and helps them become more involved in their community.

Counties are also in the middle of discussions about other major changes in services. The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) has considered shifting people with developmental disabilities into Managed Care programs and away from county-based services. This shift could benefit persons with developmental disabilities in some ways and hurt them in others.

Counties are also facing changes to the case management system that they have overseen for many years. These changes could provide greater choice to families and individuals with disabilities and improved satisfaction with services.

The Arc of Minnesota is mindful of budget limitations and challenges that counties face, but believes that supports like respite care, SILS, day training, and recreation still deserve funding. It is also monitoring proposals made by DHS and counties to ensure that they will be positive for those with disabilities. In that vein, we would like to pose the following questions:

1. How do you anticipate the cuts passed as part of the Deficit Reducation Act (DRA) will impact our county's budget?
2. Are you currently planning to take any steps in light of the (DRA) that would impact people with developmental disabilities and/or their families? If so, what steps are you planning to take or have you taken?
3. What impact do you anticipate this will ultimately have for people with developmental disabilities and their families?
4. What do you anticipate as the future of Managed Care - and what recommendations would you offer to ensure a favorable future for Managed Care for all concerned?
5. What do you see as the future of Case Management - and what recommendations would you offer to ensure a favorable future for Case Management for all concerned?
Please send any responses you get from counties to Mike Gude at The Arc of Minnesota, 651-523-0829 (fax) or e-mail Mike.