Show-Me State Times

Senator Eric Schmitt’s provision to expand home and community-based services for individuals with developmental disabilities has been signed into law as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill. The measure, based on Schmitt’s Helping Communities with Better Support (HCBS) Act, aims to reduce long waiting lists and increase access to care for people with disabilities in their homes or communities.

“Individuals with disabilities, who often need a level of specialized care that is beyond what their families can provide, deserve access to quality and convenient care, no matter where they may live. My provision is the largest expansion of home and community-based services in American history and ensures that individuals with disabilities can receive the care they need to lead fulfilling and productive lives. As we deliver historic wins for the American people, it is crucial that we continue to advocate and support Americans with disabilities. I am grateful for the support my effort has received and was glad to see President Trump sign it into law on Independence Day as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill,” said Senator Schmitt.

States currently limit the number of waiver “slots” available for these services, resulting in years-long waitlists for those needing appropriate care. The new legislation increases overall HCBS capacity so more people can receive services.

Wendy Sullivan, CEO of Easterseals Midwest, stated: “Access to essential Home and Community-Based Services is vital for Americans living with developmental disabilities. This legislation expands access and ensures timely interim coverage, enabling individuals to receive urgent, efficient, and reliable care. It marks a significant step forward and underscores the critical need for a strong Medicaid system to protect the dignity and independence of people with disabilities.”

Sara Hart Weir, Executive Director of Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities, highlighted ongoing challenges in Kansas and Missouri: “Kansas and Missouri continue to have one of the country’s largest IDD Waitlists with over 4,791 Kansans and Missourians with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) waiting 8-10 years for Home & Community Based Services (HCBS). The HCBS Act, thanks to the leadership of U.S. Senator Schmitt, will increase funding for HCBS, help reduce long waitlists and provide greater transparency by requiring states to make publicly available data on waitlists, service delays, and the percentage of care hours actually delivered. Medicaid and HCBS is a joint federal and state program, and it’s crucial for Congress, Governors, and State Legislatures to work together to ensure that Americans with disabilities remain a top priority when making funding decisions. The HCBS Act is a huge step forward toward expanding access to HCBS for all Americans with disabilities.”

Rachel Barkley from Able Americans commented on other provisions included in the bill: “The One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBBA) includes two key provisions championed by Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) that will benefit millions of Americans with disabilities. The bill strengthens ABLE Accounts by extending vital tax provisions that encourage savings for people with disabilities who join the workforce. It also provides a $1,000 savers credit and allows rollovers from 529 education savings accounts into ABLE Accounts—promoting financial security and flexibility. Additionally, the OBBBA incorporates the Helping Communities with Better Support (HCBS) Act, which expands vital access to Medicaid home-and community-based services (HCBS) for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. It also improves waitlist transparency and accountability to people on the lists seeking care.”

More information about this legislation can be found at HERE.