Disabled Michiganders’ benefits uncertain
LANSING, Mich., Jan. 30, 2025 — The national government halted almost all federal funding this week, sending a shockwave of fear among Michiganders with disabilities, their loved ones and service providers. A federal court ruling on Tuesday partially paused that funding freeze until Monday, Feb. 3, but concern and alarm remain.
“This chaos and uncertainty in funding access has caused fear for many people in Michigan, especially in the disability community,” said state Rep. Sharon MacDonell (D-Troy). “Medicaid funds pay for services authorized under the Home and Community-Based Services waiver, which allows thousands of seniors and individuals with disabilities to get help with daily life activities while staying in their own homes and communities. I will continue to speak out against Republicans’ reckless behavior at the federal level and where it crops up in Michigan.”
Medicaid, by far the largest insurer for people with disabilities, reported payment portal outages immediately following the announcement. While access is back online now, the blackout created significant chaos and confusion. Interference in Medicaid payments to medical providers would prevent thousands of Michiganders with disabilities from getting health care. Medicaid funds also pay for Long-Term Services and Supports, which individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities rely on for their daily needs. Additionally, many organizations providing care coordination, legal representation, benefits counseling, and other key services for individuals with disabilities receive substantial funding from federal grants.
“As chair of the Michigan Legislative Disability Caucus, I understand the danger of this decision made by the president,” MacDonell said. “Even a short pause in the federal revenue stream could weaken Medicaid and service providers’ abilities to function, forcing many to shut their doors. This would directly harm people with disabilities.”