GOVT SHUTDOWN & WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR THE IDD COMMUNITY

These are really uncertain times. The Federal Government shut down as of September 30, 2025 and there are many questions that people have regarding how this is going to impact services and supports for the ID/D community. The Department of Developmental Services sent out an update regarding the key programs and what to anticipate and prepare for during these uncertain times.

What is important to note is that while 'Federal Funding' for lapsed as of October 1, 2025 for several programs at DDS, the "State funding" for the Department of Developmental (DDS) Services' programs are approved through June 30, 2026. In order to stay informed and updated, here is a key update shared by DDS on what the lapse in federal funding could mean for our community.

SSI (Supplemental Security Income) payments will continue uninterrupted since many Californians, especially those with ID/D rely on SSI. However, customer service at the SSA could be impacted.

Medicaid, called Medi-Cal in California, is funded by the State through June 30, 2026, and by the federal government through the end of December 2025. This year, 37 percent of the funding for developmental disabilities services comes through Medi-Cal. While we do not anticipate immediate disruptions, a prolonged shutdown lasting past December 2025 could affect the availability of federal funds.

Calfresh, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for October 2025 will not be affected, according to guidance provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service, however, developments are being tracked by the California Department of Social Services for updates on remaining months and assess potential next steps.

Federal agencies must have plans in place for operating without a federal budget. Based upon various laws, it is likely that many federal employees will not be working and will not be paid, so access to information, technical assistance, or other communications with the public may be limited during the shutdown.  While "Essential Employees" in various federal agencies are expected to continue working since they will be paid, the public can expect a significant slowdown in response times and customer service during this period.

You could find information shared here from the DDS communication here.

If you or a loved one with ID/D require any assistance or guidance in accessing supports and services, please reach out to your LIFE Connector Service at PRAGNYA via email on support@pragnya.org or call our warmline- 408 520 0098. Together, we will get through this !