As Congress and federal agencies move forward with major policy and budget decisions in 2026, disability advocacy organizations are raising serious concerns about how new legislation could affect adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDDs), their families, and the systems that support them. Several proposed legislative and administrative actions signal a shift away from long-standing federal commitments to disability rights, access to care, and community-based services.

Current Issues in Disability Rights

Below is a brief overview of the threats that ongoing legislation poses to special needs adults, families, and caregivers.

Proposed Medicaid Changes and Coverage Risks

Medicaid remains the backbone of services for adults with IDDs, funding home and community-based services, long-term supports, and critical health care. Proposed 2026 Medicaid changes could include tighter eligibility requirements, new work reporting rules, and caps on federal spending that shift costs to states. These changes could lead states to reduce optional services, impose longer waiting lists, or narrow provider networks, making it harder for adults with IDDs to access consistent care and supports.

Federal Budget Proposals and Program Cuts

There are deep concerns about the drafted 2026 US Department of Health and Human Services budget, which proposes reductions to programs that directly serve people with disabilities. These include cuts to community living initiatives, workforce supports, university programs, public health programs, and more that benefit people with complex support needs. While the proposals are framed as cost containment, advocates argue these reductions threaten independent living and increase reliance on institutional care.

Shifting Disability Policy Priorities

Broader changes in US disability policy place a growing emphasis on individual responsibility rather than systemic accommodation. This shift raises alarms for adults with IDDs, who may face new barriers to accessing benefits, housing, and employment supports if federal protections are weakened or enforcement is scaled back.

Other 2026 Legislative Trends Advocates Are Watching Closely

Disability organizations are increasingly concerned about federal efforts to slow growth in social spending while rolling back civil rights protections. Trends include challenges to disability related regulations, delays in updating accessibility standards, and reduced federal oversight of state disability services. These changes could compound inequities already faced by adults with IDDs, particularly those with limited family or financial support.

State-Level Impacts and Advocacy Warnings

Federal decisions quickly ripple down to state budgets and programs. Reduced federal funding often forces states to make difficult choices that affect service availability, caregiver pay, and program stability. Disability advocates emphasize that 2026 should be a year of advancing inclusion and quality of life, not retreating from it.

Anyone can support the rights and well-being of adults with special needs by supporting organizations like Progressive Lifestyles, which provides essential services and advocacy for special needs adults and their families. Supporting community-based nonprofits helps ensure stability, dignity, and opportunity in an uncertain policy landscape.

Support Special Needs Adults With Progressive Lifestyles

Progressive Lifestyles, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation based in Waterford, Michigan, and we have been in operation since 1983. Our mission is to provide supportive and caring residential opportunities for individuals with IDDs throughout Oakland County.

We support small, licensed adult foster care homes and private residences with community living supports, home help services, and private-duty nurses.

A primary focus of our organization is to interact with the individuals we support through the “Culture of Gentleness” model. We seek to create a positive environment to help them feel safe and valued by maximizing praise, limiting demands, maintaining consistent structure, and reducing stress during transitions. Contact us to learn more, and consider donating today!