Columbia News

This weekend marked a significant development in the expansion of home and community-based services for individuals with developmental disabilities in the United States. Senator Eric Schmitt's (R-MO) provision, which is part of the One Big Beautiful Bill, was signed into law. This provision aligns with Senator Schmitt’s Helping Communities with Better Support (HCBS) Act and aims to reduce long waiting lists, allowing more individuals with disabilities to access necessary care at home or within their communities.

Senator Schmitt expressed his commitment to supporting Americans with disabilities, stating, “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."

The legislation addresses the limitations states face regarding waiver "slots," which restricts the number of people receiving services at any given time. This has resulted in extended waitlists for those requiring appropriate care. The new law expands HCBS capacity nationwide.

Wendy Sullivan, CEO of Easterseals Midwest, emphasized the importance of this expansion: “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.”

Sara Hart Weir from the Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities highlighted ongoing challenges: “Kansas and Missouri continue to have one of the country’s largest IDD Waitlists... The HCBS Act will increase funding for HCBS, help reduce long waitlists and provide greater transparency by requiring states to make publicly available data on waitlists.”

Rachel Barkley from Able Americans noted additional benefits included in the bill: “The One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBBA) includes two key provisions championed by Senator Eric Schmitt... It also provides a $1,000 savers credit and allows rollovers from 529 education savings accounts into ABLE Accounts—promoting financial security and flexibility.”

The full text of the bill is available for public review.