Uncertainty
Some thoughts about ongoing legislative uncertainty for the I/DD Community
Nathaniel Hawkins, Community Outreach and QMP Coordinator
In the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) community, one of the foremost current concerns is whether or not Medicaid funding will survive the downsizing of the federal government at the direction of President Trump and the DOGE under Elon Musk. There is legitimate cause for concern. The White House has assured the public that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid (see their statement here: FACT CHECK: President Trump Will Always Protect Social Security, Medicare – The White House). Yet congressional budget propositions seeking $4.5 trillion in tax cuts and $880 billion in Medicaid/Medicare cuts to offset $2 trillion in spending reductions would seem to necessitate the demolition of benefits under Medicaid (Trump Says Medicaid Won’t Be ‘Touched.’ House Republicans Want It Cut by Hundreds of Billions. – The New York Times).
The greatest concern for Cheyenne Village and the 153 other I/DD service providers throughout Colorado is the well-being of those we serve. People in the I/DD community require significant resources – far more than the average person. This is due to a wide and complex array of medical, behavioral and therapeutic needs. Yet, spending even a short time with any of these individuals and their families, friends and caregivers can’t help but leave lasting impressions – and something of far greater value than the price tag of resources. The incomparable sincerity and unbridled love of those in the I/DD community sparks something bigger than words – or dollar signs – in the soul; something that resonates with the very core of what it means to be human. Yes, they need care. Yes, that can be expensive. Yes, the returns are intangible. But what is the price tag on compassion, joy, hope and love – on humanity itself?
Cheyenne Village is the oldest residential provider of services to the I/DD community in Colorado Springs. We care enormously – and personally – about those we serve. We want to encourage you to speak out about potential cuts to services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This is not a partisan issue – it’s a human one. Find your Colorado state legislators here: https://leg.colorado.gov/FindMyLegislator. Federal legislators can be found here: Find Your Members in the U.S. Congress | Congress.gov | Library of Congress and here: Find Your Representative | house.gov. Write them to remind them of the importance of protecting those most in need. Check out Alliance Colorado for news and resources.
The concerns are real. But let’s not let fear, politics, ignorance or apathy stop us from uniting around a resource of inestimable worth – the beautiful, vibrant human beings who make up the I/DD community!
