CMS Releases ARPA State Spending Summaries for HCBS Enhancement

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released state spending plan summaries related to the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), showcasing investments in Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). As of December 31, 2022, $36.8 billion had been allocated across all 51 states, with $24.6 billion specifically directed to direct care worker recruitment and retention activities. The state-specific breakdowns provide transparency on how ARPA funds are enhancing HCBS. The focus on bolstering the direct care workforce underscores the commitment to quality community-based care. Stakeholders can utilize these summaries to understand the allocation of funds in their regions, promoting transparency and accountability in the deployment of ARPA resources for HCBS.

As of the quarter ending December 31, 2022, the topline details include:

• Additional Spending per Beneficiary: An extra $4,933 per beneficiary will be allocated across all 51 states to enhance, expand, or strengthen HCBS.
• Total Activities Across States: More than 1,200 activities have been proposed across all states, focusing on workforce recruitment and retention, training, quality improvement, reducing HCBS waiting lists, and technology expansion.
• Total Planned Spending Across States: States plan to spend between $24.6 million and $5.2 billion in state and federal funds on HCBS activities under ARP Section 9817.