1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

Hello, I am writing as a concerned registered voter in Tucson, AZ, to express my deep concern over potential cuts to Arizona Medicaid services (ALTCS & DDD). These programs are critical for individuals with disabilities, and I urge your support in securing both supplemental and ongoing funding. I worked in the Nogales Public Schools for 30 years and witnessed first hand the impact funding has on our special education programs. Our special education students need so much more support and services than currently can be afforded. I can’t image the devastating effects a cut to the budget would do to their education and families. On January 29, 2025, the House Appropriations Committee discussed the DDD and ALTCS budget, revealing a $120 million shortfall that must be addressed by May 2025 to keep these programs solvent. During the meeting, Representative Livingston proposed three alarming paths forward: Cutting 25% of services for the disability community. Eliminating the Parents as Paid Caregivers program, slashing the direct care workforce. Preparing for mass layoffs of those providing essential DDD services. These options are unacceptable. Without additional funding, DDD will be unable to cover payments beyond May 2025, leaving tens of thousands of disabled individuals without critical care. You can’t just magically say “well, I have to cut back on my spending so I don’t need this help any more.” It’s not like buying a daily cup of coffee. This is vital to their health and well being. Every ALTCS and DDD member has complex needs that meet the burden of institutionalization. These funds provide therapies, medical interventions, and vital home and community support. Cutting DDD and ALTCS funding by 25% is not a viable solution. People with disabilities cannot reduce their needs by 25%. Supporting and properly funding HCBS services is the fiscally responsible path forward. Without these critical services, Arizona would face higher costs due to the institutionalization of disabled individuals, mass unemployment among providers, a significant increase in public service spending, and widespread housing instability. With a current budget surplus of approximately $600 million, Arizona can afford the recommended increases without dipping into its reserves. I urge you to find alternative budget solutions and establish long-term accountability measures for AHCCCS spending—without stripping life-saving services from Arizona’s most vulnerable individuals. Thank you for your time and support on behalf of the tens of thousands of individuals with disabilities in Arizona.