The State of America's Direct Support Workforce Crisis 2026

New data reveal little sign of meaningful progress ahead of impending wave of funding cuts.
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Tell Congress: Protect Medicaid From Further Cuts

Medicaid is a lifeline for people with I/DD. After suffering the largest cut in funding since its creation with the passage of the budget reconciliation law last year, the future of critical home and community-based services (HCBS) continues to be under threat.

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a DSP supports someone with I/DD

Tell Congress to Support the Recognizing the Role of DSPs Act

The bipartisan Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act urges the Office of Management and Budget to establish a Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) for direct support professionals (DSPs).

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a DSP helps a woman with I/DD in the kitchen
Tell Congress: Support the HCBS Access Act
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a young person with I/DD laughing with his family and support staff
Tell Congress: Enable Financial Security for People with Disabilities
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Advocate for the HCBS Relief Act: Strengthen Community Services
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A care worker supporting a young person with I/DD
Support the HEADs UP Act—Recognize People with I/DD as Medically Underserved
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Fact Sheets Cuts to Medicaid Harm Disability Services
Research & Reports The State of America’s Direct Support Workforce Crisis 2024
Capacity-Building Tools Disaster Preparedness Resources for Community Providers
Capitol Correspondence - 09.29.26

GAO Report Highlights Challenges in Funding Employment Supports for People with I/DD

A person with I/DD working at a coffee shop
The Latest
Capitol Correspondence — 09.29.26 CMS Reports More Than 144,000 Transitions Through Money Follows the Person
Capitol Correspondence — 09.29.26 Senate Advances HHS Nominee Chris Klomp
Capitol Correspondence — 09.23.26 ANCOR Policy Summit and Hill Day Breaks Advocacy Records