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Advocating Today for a Better Tomorrow
As a nonpartisan organization, EPI is committed to advocating for the needs of our community. Whether it’s ensuring access to vital supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) or access to quality child care for families, we work hard to provide timely, accurate information.
There is Strength in Numbers
Advocacy is a community effort, and each of us can play a role. Whether you’re reaching out to policymakers, educating others, or simply amplifying stories of those impacted by advocacy efforts, every action counts. By supporting these initiatives, you contribute to a future where everyone can thrive.
Current Advocacy Priority: Save Medicaid
Right now, proposed Medicaid budget cuts could have devastating impacts to intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) services, including:
- Shifting costs to states, leading to lower provider rates and reduced services
- Threatening home and community-based services (HCBS), increasing waitlists and institutionalization
- Putting individuals with I/DD at risk of losing critical supports
- Worsening workforce shortages
However, Medicaid Is Not Just for Individuals With Disabilities
Medicaid serves over 800,000 Iowans, providing necessary medical care and ensuring healthcare access for those in need. While HCBS is a crucial component to EPI, Medicaid also funds a wide range of healthcare services, including:
- Inpatient and outpatient hospital services
- Physician services
- Lab and X-ray services
- Nursing facilities (Medicaid supports over 50% of Iowa’s nursing home residents)
- Home health care services
- Family planning services
- Hospice care
Unfortunately, we are all just one accident away from needing these critical services.
Learn More: Medicaid Resource Center
How You Can Take Action
- Make Your Voice Heard – Contact legislators through simple action alerts and encourage others to do the same! Take action now.
- Support Funding Gaps – Help bridge Medicaid funding gaps and ensure continued access to essential services. Support our mission.
- Stay Informed - Sign up for our electronic newsletter by clicking below and follow us on social media: LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
- Purchase Advocacy Apparel – Wear your support with pride! Shop for awareness apparel that spreads the message and supports our cause. Visit our store.
Looking Ahead
As we advocate today, we’re building a society that respects and celebrates diversity, equity and inclusion. With continued advocacy, we can look forward to a world where every person has equal access to the support they need and the opportunities they deserve.
Resources for All:
I/DD Specific Resources:
- Advocacy Toolkit from our national trade association, the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR), this toolkit provides essential guidance on advocating for I/DD
- Policy Priorities Learn more about the latest policy priorities we support from our state trade association Iowa Association of Community Providers (IACP)
- Iowa APSE - Visit the Iowa Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE) to explore efforts focused on advancing inclusive employment opportunities
Child Care Specific Resources: