This is The Arc’s third commentary on the Draft 1115 Medicaid Waiver. The Arc’s comments
submitted on November 20, 2013 and January 22, 2014 remain relevant. We also appreciate the
attention and changes in the new draft which resulted from comments from the Developmental
Disability Advocacy Community and the detailed Expenditure Plan. Thank you.
The investment of about $6 billion in federal and other revenues over the next five years to
modernize our Medicaid program is to be applauded.
RESOURCE PRIORITIES
The Arc was pleased to review the Expenditure Plan for the 1115 Waiver over the next five years,
regarding Disability Services which included:
Resources to reduce the waiting list – $400,000,000
Increased rates for residential providers – $190,000,000
Children’s Mental Health Services – $150,000,000
Increase in service costs to bring parity to waivers – $750,000,000
We recommend the following priorities for the Expenditure Plan:
Elimination of the PUNS Waiting List
Increasing Direct Support Professionals wages & benefits
Creating and downsizing CILA and other community living options to four persons or less
Increased funding and hours for Employment First Initiatives
Tony Paulauski Executive Director
The Arc of Illinois
20901 S. LaGrange Rd. Suite 209
Frankfort, IL 60423
815-464-1832 (OFFICE)
815-464-1832 (CELL)
Tony@www.thearcofil.org
