People with disabilities and older adults who use the IRIS (Include, Respect, I Self-direct) program in Wisconsin are worried about their future. The budget reconciliation bill passed by the House of Representatives this morning will implement significant cuts to Medicaid by making policy changes to the program. Programs such as IRIS and Family Care, which are Home and Community Based Services, may be at risk if states choose not to fund
them.
IRIS is a Medicaid funded program that allows those who qualify to receive the help they need to live and work in their communities. Participants rely on Medicaid to get the help they need such as personal care, support staff and transportation to stay healthy and safe. What happens when these supports are cut? What happens when people no longer have the support to live in the community?
“We are worried that we are returning to a time when the only places for people with disabilities and frail elders will be institutions and nursing homes” said Marion Holmberg, parent of three young adults with disabilities. “Institutions and nursing homes are not only more expensive but also limit the presence and voice of people with disabilities in the community.”
Medicaid cuts do not improve the program but endanger people with disabilities and older adults who rely on Medicaid for health and well-being. SAVE IRIS asks the U.S. Senate to reject these devastating cuts!
