Public Comments for 04/08/2025 Emergency Committee on the Impacts of Federal Workforce and Funding Reductions
Dear Committee Members, Launching NOVANEXT is a good initiative that can help in this hard time to help people like me to gain new skills to be able to transion to a new job. But, I have noticed that it is limnited in topics. I suggest adding some modules like state and government contracting, teaching certificates, training cetificates. Sincerely,
I am a 35 year resident of VA and a 27 year resident of Arlington. I retired in 2020 from USAID and was working as a part time consultant in family planning and maternal and child health with USAID contractors. I was laid off from my consultancy after the Executive Order on foreign assistance was issued and DOGE began terminating contracts. I am still owed $1900 for work done in Dec. and Jan. before the termination. I was told USAID staff was instructed to not pay vouchers for work done before the Executive Order for contracts by DOGE officials. This is unfathomable to me as I once approved vouchers for USAID. The USG cannot be trusted to pay its contractual obligations under Trump? The contractor I worked for XLA on the subcontract with Jefferson on the USAID Boost contract has not been paid by USAID after DOGE took apart the Agency payment system and still controls the Treasury payment system and disapproves payments by line item despite the Supreme Court telling them to pay up. I am lucky as I paid off my mortgage on the house I purchased in Arlington (at a reasonable price in 1999) and retired in 2020 from USAID. My younger colleagues have lost their jobs and face an extinction level event for the development field as USAID was the foundation for the global development and humanitarian ecosystem. Many from global health are now flooding the jobs market with many other public health professionals now laid off from CDC, FDA, HHS, and NIH. There are no state or local government jobs in many of the areas they were highly specialized in. These younger folks have higher rents and mortgages and many of the contractors laid off lost their health insurance with 3 days notice. I fear I will not be able to work again in my field as a consultant as I had planned to do. I ask that you consider and approve the proposed measures to help these folks. It is shameful how the governor has not supported these professional displaced workers the way Maryland and the District has.
Please see attached file.
I was an institutional support contractor who joined USAID in 2023 and was furloughed at the end of January as the stop work order rolled out, and was terminated on Feb 28 following the mass contract terminations. I worked on ensuring USAID was compliant with legislation on coordinating foreign assistance to be responsive to the needs of the world’s most vulnerable children. I brought over a decade of experience to my role at USAID and bought my house in Fairfax County last year as I felt my time at USAID was just getting started. But overnight I lost everything - my income, everything I had worked on came to a crashing halt causing harm to families, children, governments, and our implementing partners, and the career I had worked so hard to build is not longer viable as the sector sees widespread layoffs. As a contractor I was always told by our Agency leadership that I was a vital part of USAID’s workforce and valued equally among our workforce that consisted of various hiring mechanisms. As USAID was decimated by DOGE, I had no warning, no transitional period, and no severance. As a single mother in Fairfax County, I am overwhelmed by the costs of living and am grappling with how to start a new career and make enough money to meet my family’s basic needs in this community. While the county and state has showed encouragement for fired federal workers, the reality is the job market is horrific. Unemployment is meager compared to costs of living (and I’m linked to DC as my job was in DC).
Attached is a brief summary of how Virginia's Medicaid program has benefited my daughter, Elise Rebhorn and our family.
Addressing the impact of the federal workforce and funding reductions is a complex issue requiring a multi-faceted approach. I hope the committee will consider the following suggestions. 1. Legislation for Job Security: The state could introduce legislation to provide job security for employees in federally funded positions, including protection against layoffs during federal budget cuts. 2. Advocacy for Federal Legislation: While the state has limited control over federal funding, state legislators can advocate for more stable funding models at the federal level. This includes pushing for legislation that prioritizes workforce stability and funding predictability. 3. Economic Diversification: Encouraging economic diversification within Virginia can help reduce dependence on federal jobs. This might include supporting small businesses and fostering growth in various sectors.
My name is Stephanie Martz and I am a homeowner and resident of Alexandria, Virginia. I have been employed with USAID since 2017 and was posted in Mali, Ethiopia and at headquarters downtown. I was promoted to a supervisory position in 2023 and was initially part of the "probationary employee" group that was terminated on February 24, reinstated, and then RIFed with a termination date of July 1. Being a part of USAID was the capstone achievement to my over twenty-plus years in international development and public health -- working initially with NGOs, a domestic (county) public health agency, and finally for USAID. To be hired by USAID I had to have a master's degree and decades of experience living and working in developing countries. I have a TS/SCI security clearance. I have been striving towards this goal my entire career and was planning on retiring from USAID. The financial, emotional and psychological damage of this massive, illegal and immoral elimination of USAID under the Trump/DOGE regime cannot be understated. Not only is my position and employer gone, but the entire international development sector has been wiped out. I have been actively looking for employment since February 24 but have not received any interest as no one is hiring in my areas of expertise -- international development and public health -- and the few that are (domestic public health agencies) are either 1.) overwhelmed with high quality candidates who have been RIFed from government who are looking for work and 2.) grossly underpaid relative to what we were making as federal employees (which was not excessive, but domstic public health is notoriously underpaid.). It would help if the Virignia House of Delegates woudl 1.) give federal employees hiring preference for Virginia city and county jobs and 2.) pay those positions more attractive salaries, especially if relocation is needed. Thank you for your time.
To whom it may concern, I am a USAID foreign service officer that just moved to Virginia last year. I am a single mom. I bought my first home and my kids have settled into the community. Due to the dissolution of USAID alongside the massive layoffs in the DMV, I fear I will be unable to find work after I am separated. I am owed payout of my accrued annual leave and eligible for involuntary early retirement; however, current estimates show that I may not receive any of those payments for 6-9 months. How will my family and I survive until then? We will be forced to rent our place and leave Virginia if we can’t pay the mortgage, causing severe disruption to my kids’ lives and the communities they are part of. Please consider: 1) no interest loans for mortgage payments; 2) increasing unemployment compensation and ensuring those retiring but not receiving benefits are eligible; 3) creating short-term employment opportunities for laid off federal workers. Thank you!
Dear Delegates, First off let me thank you for your public service and supporting the people of the State of Virginia. I appreciate the opportunity to speak about my concerns about the Trump Administration’s efforts to reduce federal spending and the size of the federal workforce. While we can and should have ongoing discussions about budgets and the size of the federal workforce, the way the Trump Administration is going about their cuts is damaging to the rule of law, and the people of Virginia and the United States as a whole. I was a Foreign Service Officer who recently retired from the Department of State. I served overseas in five countries, four of which had USAID programs, and another, Cuba, had U.S. government programs like Radio Marti that supported people living under the repressive Cuban government. I have seen firsthand the benefits that foreign assistance can bring to everyday people, and the enormous soft power that this can bring. While the Chinese are building soccer stadiums and airports that 90% of the people will never use, U.S. foreign assistance is bringing health programs, clean water, and education to people who would otherwise not receive it. The cuts being made to foreign assistance are terminating life saving programs that have been congressionally appropriated. The funding cuts - across all agencies - are reducing the effectiveness of government programs and eliminating career professional staff who have subject matter expertise. This is damaging programs that Americans rely on to be safe, secure, and prosperous. In addition many of these cuts are being made by people appointed to temporary positions within their respective departments and agencies, giving them no insights into the types of programs they are cutting, nor the ramifications of their actions. The actions taken are damaging the international standing of the United States, and showing that we are not going to be there to those people who need us most. We are demonstrating that the greatest country in the world, a beacon for people around the world for our dynamic, strong economy and rule of law, cannot or worse, will not, help those in need be they here at home or abroad. Cuts across the federal workforce have local ramifications. Many of my neighbors have worked for the federal government for years, and now are concerned for the future of their families based on cuts to programs made on whims of temporary employees who do not see the forest for the trees. According to the Economic Policy Institute, there are 235,000 federal government employees in Virginia. Most, if not all of these people are concerned about their jobs, if they have not lost them already. Are you as representatives of the State of Virginia concerned about those people and their families? I ask that you in your role as elected representatives support federal workers in Virginia by demanding Congress take up its duties to see that funds appropriated are duly obligated by the Administration; that Congress protect the integrity of congressionally mandated agencies; and that the rule of law, including an independent court system, is upheld. In absence of these common sense ideas our country and the people of Virginia will be less safe, less secure, and less prosperous. Sincerely, Geoffrey Schadrack
I'm a USAID Career employee and effective July 1 my position will be terminated. As you know, many federal emplpyees are specialists in specific fields that don't necessarily translate well in normal.tomes, however, right now the USG is RIF'ing thoisands of career employees while also canceling federal contracts. This has created a perfect storm for federal employees and contractors as the normal landing space would be a different agency (hiring freezes) or a contract. While I have e ougj in savings.for a few months to pay my mortgage its possible that I may need to consider selling my house and leaving the city/county area.of NoVa that I've lived in since 2000. The Governor and Attorney General have very much failed their residents by not joining lawsuits to protect their constituents jobs simply for political reasons. They seem to forget that NoVa residents are huge financial contributors to the region and if we fail, the Commonwealth will be in dire shape financially.
Thank you for the opportunity to share my experience. My name is Corrie and I returned to work at USAID in January, only three months postpartum. What should have been a smooth transition back into my role quickly turned into a nightmare, as a series of events completely derailed my career and life. Soon after my return, I witnessed the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), under Elon Musk’s leadership, dismantle USAID. Our building was shuttered, our website was taken offline, and all visible traces of USAID’s work were erased. This abrupt action was devastating and left us with no explanation. To make matters worse, I was placed on administrative leave and then faced a Reduction in Force (RIF) — not once, but twice. The process was dehumanizing. I was given just 15 minutes to gather my personal items and leave the building, leaving me both professionally and emotionally displaced. In the months since, I have received vague emails that question my value as a federal worker and fail to provide reasoning on the decisions being made. I was also informed that I could no longer communicate with my partners or pay them for work they had already completed, which jeopardized both professional relationships and the financial stability of my partners and me. Navigating these challenges while recovering postpartum has taken an immense toll on me. The uncertainty and confusion of the past four months, compounded by the emotional and physical strain of new motherhood, have been overwhelming. One of the most painful part of this experience was the public labeling of federal workers like myself as "criminals" by Elon Musk. These comments added insult to injury, further reinforcing the devaluation and disrespect many of us are facing. This was especially difficult given that the core mission of USAID is to provide humanitarian and development aid to strengthen communities and help our global neighbors thrive. As someone committed to that mission, it felt like a direct attack on the very values I’ve worked to uphold in my career. USAID’s work not only helps make the world a better place but also contributes to making America more prosperous and safer by fostering stability and economic development around the globe. Our efforts reduce the root causes of conflict and instability, which in turn strengthens both the global community and the security of the United States. I share my story not just for myself, but for all federal workers who have been impacted by these cuts and the lack of dignity and support. These decisions have real, human consequences, and for me, it meant losing a career I worked hard to build, all while navigating the challenges of new motherhood. I urge this committee to recognize the toll these workforce reductions take on dedicated public servants like myself. We must ensure that federal workers are treated with dignity and respect, not discarded when times get tough. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Hi my name is Celia Laskowski and I am a civil servant who has received termination notice by USAID. This is not a standard layoff situation. My entire sector is effectively eliminated, so myself and my colleagues and my bosses and their bosses are all now competing for whatever jobs we can find, as more government workers and contractors get laid off weekly, adding to the pool. USAID was the first, but we certainly won't be the last, and that means thousands of unemployed Virginians (and growing). As prices for goods and services continue to rise. We urgently need support from the state of Virginia. As many of us rent, I recommend amending the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA)—codified in § 55.1-1200 et seq. of the Code of Virginia—to allow for early lease termination in cases of involuntary unemployment. This amendment would offer tenants the flexibility to relocate for new job opportunities, particularly within the private sector, without incurring penalties and reduce the strain on the state of Virginia. Simultaneously, of course we want to retain a varied workforce in Virginia. Along those lines, I urge the General Assembly to establish a Virginia Supplemental Hiring Tax Credit (VSHTC). This state-level tax credit would provide up to $2,400 per eligible hire to employers that hire recently laid-off federal employees or federal contractors. This targeted credit would stabilize communities impacted by federal budget cuts, retain talent, and prevent brain drain from the Commonwealth. Ultimately, as a proud Virginian, I ask for your support. To support the service that I did so proudly for America and for the world at USAID by treating us with the integrity and respect we deserve as public servants, and by providing us with real tangible relief to help us get through this extremely difficult period of instability for the region. Thank you.
I worked at an implementing partner for USAID for over 20 years. I have excellent experience, credentials, and reputation and have always supported myself and my children and given back locally to those in need. I have contributed to the local economy and so have so many like me. I am applying to dozens of jobs every week in VA with excellent, tailored applications as well as networking and personal recommendations. I al taking courses to strengthen my skills and availing myself of free coaching and all the free resources made available to us. I have been doing so for over a month. I have gotten zero responses. Let that sink in. Zero responses. My savings will run out and then I will have to go on public assistance if I cannot find or generate work or an income.
My name is Dmitri House. I am 18 and I am dually diagnosed with Down syndrome and Autism. I rely on Medicaid to help teach me and give me independence. Please do not allow any cuts to the federal budget for any programs that impact individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Thank you, Dmitri House
The ongoing reductions in the federal workforce and the uncertainty surrounding federal funding commitments are profoundly affecting our residents. As policies continue that lead to widespread reductions in force for the federal government, and long-standing commitments to federal funding are no longer able to be relied upon, these impacts are growing. • Nearly 16,000 Alexandrians are employed by federal agencies and contractors, and more than 9,000 federal jobs are located within the City. • Prolonged unemployment is expected to significantly increase the demand for social and community support programs in Alexandria. These services, offered both by the City of Alexandria and various non-profit organizations, are crucial to our community’s well-being and are likely to face significant strain. • The situation is further exacerbated by reductions in federal funding. In FY 2024, the City had expenditures from federal awards totaling $67 million. The abrupt revocation of anticipated ARPA funding from Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), which funded community health workers and more, will cause reductions in service, and directly impact staffing for the City and its partner agencies. • Support provided directly to residents, not passed through the City, is also at risk. Nearly 18,000 residents directly received SNAP benefits, totaling more than $26 million. Over 42,000 residents received almost $120 million in benefits from Medicaid, and TANF support amounted to nearly $500,000 to support 2,797 residents. • Additionally, the City anticipates the potential for a significant decline in local business revenue as a result of federal job losses. This will serve to exacerbate the job losses in Alexandria and surrounding areas and reduce tax revenues on which the City relies to provide community support services. In response, the City is taking proactive steps to mitigate these impacts. This work has included: • Providing direct outreach to federal employees and contractors to better understand the resources provided by the City. • Hosting job fairs to make finding new employment opportunities easier. • Coordinating with partner non-profit service agencies to identify and, when possible, fill gaps in services to the community. Despite these efforts, the City’s actions are constrained by budgetary and legal limitations. We urge the Commonwealth to: • Fully restore the recently revoked ARPA funding from DBHDS and commit to fully funding and maintaining other similar pass-through funding currently allocated, even if federal funding is withdrawn. • Expedite and increase the unemployment benefits to account for the higher cost of living in northern Virginia. The current rate of less than $500 per week is not sufficient to cover housing, groceries, and medical needs with the higher cost of living in the region. • Provide short-term funding to cover the partial or full loss of pass-through federal grants specific to housing, education, and social service support for our most vulnerable populations. We look forward to a continued partnership with members of the General Assembly to better understand these significant impacts and to develop immediate solutions that can protect our residents. Sincerely, Alyia Gaskins Mayor, City of Alexandria (Edited for length; full letter attached)
My son is an adult with an intellectual disability. He is a recipient of the DD waiver and without that his quality of life would be severely diminished, there are very few opportunities for this population after they exit high school, especially if they are unable to work. What the waiver provides for my son through access to a day program is a purpose, somewhere to go, a reason to get up in the morning, a community, friendships; all things that most people take for granted. Hopefully is will provide him with a home. These waivers are crucial for this population, as a parent of a young man with disabilities I am very aware that there will come a time when I am no longer here and every family in my position has to face this daunting prospect. As a retired military family, we have no extended family here to assist either. The Medicaid waivers are crucial for these individuals, it is literally life or death for many of them, if funding is cut for these waivers where will these adults go? I mean that literally, we are talking about individuals who are unable to care for themselves. It is clear from the rhetoric recently, that this population is an easy target because they cannot advocate for themselves, you need to think long and hard about the consequences of what this means for people.
Hi! I am Haiden. I am 17 years old and I have Down syndrome. I use Medicaid for my primary care doctor and all of my specialties between Children's National and Johns Hopkins University Hospital. I also use if for my prescriptions and dental services. Additionally, I have the DD Waiver. With that waiver, I am able to have someone help me each day after school for sports, chores at home, and getting into the community teaching me things like shopping for food. Once I finish school, I will be able to use the waiver for additional supports like companionship and different independent housing options, to name a few. Without Medicaid, I would not be able to live independently and be able to pursue my dreams. I would have to live with and relay on my parents for the rest of their lives. Please ensure any federal funding cuts do not impact Medicaid and any other care and services for people with disabilities (i.e. Social Security and Administration for Community Living (HHS)) Thank you very much for your time and consideration, Haiden House
I am writing on behalf of my 37 year old son, Zachary. Zachary is autistic and his life has been dramatically improved through the services provided to him through Medicaid. He has truly been able to live a life like yours because of Medicaid. Zachary has a job he loves recycling electronics. He is in a competitive, minimum wage job because of his Medicaid support. Medicaid funded the day support program where he was trained to do the recycling work. It continues to provide job supports at his job with a commercial recycler in Chantilly. Medicaid also provides transportation to his job site. Zachary also has his own apartment in an Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing building with a Medicaid funded live-in aide, He loves the independence this provides for him. Without Medicaid, his job and apartment would not be possible. It is likely that he would have to move back in with his aging parents and spend his days at their home. He would no longer be an active, contributing member of the community. Please ensure that any federal funding cuts do not impact Medicaid supports for the disabled in Virginia. My son loves his life, and I know that he would be making this request directly to you if he could. Thank you for listening to my request for my son, Zachary. Alex Yellin
hello my name is Rose Pleskow. I’m 35 and have intellectual disabilities and epilepsy. I just celebrated my 2 year anniversary of living in my own apartment and I love it! I have caregivers who help me 3 times a week. I was on the Medicaid waiver list for 15 years and finally got a waiver. I could not live on my own without the help of Medicaid. Because of my epilepsy, I have a seizure watch and other safety devices. I have a ring doorbell which makes me feel more secure. I take a lot of seizure meds to keep me healthy and alive. Medicaid helps me pay for these and the doctor visits to my sweet neurologist. I have a great therapist who helps me with my anxiety. If Medicaid was cut I would be so worried and sad. I’m not sure what I would do. Can you please make sure the federal funding cuts do not impact Medicaid and services that help me and my friends live on our own. We have worked so hard to get here!! Thank you so much for listening.
hello my name is Rose Pleskow. I’m 35 and have intellectual disabilities and epilepsy. I just celebrated my 2 year anniversary of living in my own apartment and I love it! I have caregivers who help me 3 times a week. I was on the Medicaid waiver list for 15 years and finally got a waiver. I could not live on my own without the help of Medicaid. Because of my epilepsy, I have a seizure watch and other safety devices. I have a ring doorbell which makes me feel more secure. I take a lot of seizure meds to keep me healthy and alive. Medicaid helps me pay for these and the doctor visits to my sweet neurologist. I have a great therapist who helps me with my anxiety. If Medicaid was cut I would be so worried and sad. I’m not sure what I would do. Can you please make sure the federal funding cuts do not impact Medicaid and services that help me and my friends live on our own. We have worked so hard to get here!! Thank you so much for listening.
Sheema lives with a severe seizure disorder that includes frequent petit mal seizures throughout the day and grand mal seizures two to three times each week. These seizures are unpredictable and dangerous, requiring continuous monitoring to ensure her safety and prevent injuries such as head trauma. Her condition demands constant vigilance from caregivers through the Medicaid funded DD Waiver who must be ready to provide immediate support when a seizure occurs. Sheema has also suffered lasting physical harm as a result of past seizures. Years ago, she experienced severe burn injuries during seizure episodes, which left her with ongoing pain and discomfort on her right cheek, right elbow, and left foot. These areas remain sensitive and continue to affect her quality of life. In addition to her medical needs, Sheema requires extensive support with both Activities of Daily Living and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living. She needs hands-on assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, hygiene, mobility, transferring, and eating. Mealtimes are particularly risky due to the potential for seizures and choking, making close supervision essential. Sheema also depends on support for meal preparation, housekeeping, laundry, and managing money in order to maintain a safe, functional home. She requires guidance in making healthy dietary choices and occasionally uses a wheelchair to reduce strain and prevent falls during prolonged walking. Sheema is a monolingual Dari speaker and cannot communicate in English. She relies on her support funded through Medicaid to translate and cannot call for help in emergencies. This language barrier, combined with cognitive vulnerabilities, puts her at high risk for exploitation and harm. She needs constant supervision and a structured support system to remain safe. Without these critical supports through her Medicaid DD Wavier, Sheema would not be able to live safely at home or manage her complex medical, daily living, and communication needs. In that case, her only option would be placement in an assisted living facility. We respectfully urge you to support services that allow individuals like Sheema to remain in their homes and communities with dignity and the care they need. It is very difficult for Shemma to live without any support, so I kindly ask you to please ensure not to cut any federal funding that impacts Medicaid services for people with disabilities. I do appreciate it, and I'm thankful for you getting a chance to listen and consider this message.
Our twin daughters are 24, and we fostered and then adopted them as babies and then toddlers. One twin is autistic, type 1 diabetic, has severe ADHD, PTSD (from MULTIPLE sexual assaults, one from a teacher), has pervasive depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Many of these enables her to be approved for disability before she was 18. She now lives on her own - a DREAM of hers - (after living in five group homes and being emotionally abused in ALL of them - due to lack of ANY real oversight). She is FINALLY flourishing! The opportunities Medicaid has made possible for her have been not only life-saving medically but life-altering as well. Here is what she RELIES on Medicaid for (and she still uses our insurance as her primary insurance, by the way): * primary care * endocrinology (diabetes) * nephrology(kidney disease) * psychiatry * dentist * medications (many!) * insulin!! * glucose monitor (Dexcom) that enables her (and me, wherever I am) to know in real-time if her blood sugar has gone too low (which can cause seizures or be deadly if not addressed quickly) or too high (which can put her into keto acidosis, which can cause seizures or death.) * in-home Medication management system (to ensure she never misses her many medications) * daily in-home staff (untrained) that ensure she is safe - can help her address emergency diabetic issues immediately, ensures she doesn’t forget the stove is on or food is cooking, helps her get to all of her appointments, etc. Her twin has severe ADHD, schizoaffective bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, PTSD, and depression. She was homeless for almost two years, and only recently got into an apartment. Medicaid currently supplies her with: * psychiatric treatment * Psychiatric medications * Medical care * We are currently working on it supplying her with therapy My husband and I will be supporting them for the rest of our lives. There is endless paperwork, meds to oversee, doctor’s appointments to make and attend, records and records and records to keep track of and update (always more!!), meetings to attend, and their apartments to take care of. If Medicaid disappears so much of the above disappears or becomes too expensive for them to afford. What would their lives look like without it? I’m too terrified to think about it. My husband and I are up at night endlessly worrying about it and them - and worrying about their brothers who may be left to care for them when we die. Did I mention they live on Social Security Income/SSI and SSDI? And SNAP. The amount would shock you. So remember - these disabled (and MANY times abused and assaulted) women were once babies in the foster care system. We were their fourth home at the age of 2 months old. So if you are pro-life - you MUST be pro-Medicaid and pro-Social Security. Because a life is a life is a life. Adorable little babies grow into adults who still need love and care and support - and sometimes SERVICES! Do not allow these services to be taken. Please 🙏 🙏🙏🙏🙏 FIGHT for all of the people out there who NEED Medicaid.
My daughter receives Medicaid CCC+ waiver services and insurance due to primary diagnosis of autism and a laundry list of other diagnoses. Medicaid provided speech therapy services and she is now able verbally communicate effectively with others. She received physical and occupational therapy services through early intervention and she is able to walk independently and developed fine motor skills to allow her to write and use keyboard. She is a CCC+ waiver recipient which has provided respite and attendant care as she can’t be safely cared for by a lay caregiver nor can she be left home alone. My daughter will likely need support to all of her life including supported living as an adult. Autism is rising and now affects 1 in 36 children’s with raises steadily rising. This is not the time to cut services to children an adults with disabilities. It is a time to grow services (while simultaneously investing in research to find contributing factors to growing rates of autism). . Cutting Medicaid services will be devastating for families of children with disabilities and for adults with disabilities. Please maintain, expand and grow these vital services!
Hello, I am reaching out to advocate for continued support for the Medicaid program in Virginia. My 2 year old daughter, Mora, was born with a genetic disorder causing her to have seizures, an inability to speak, issues with motor function/mobility, developmental delays, and intellectual delays among other daily challenges. She is currently a Medicaid recipient through the CCC+ Waiver program which provides her access to services such as treatments and therapies which we could not provide her otherwise. These services are essential for disabled individuals like my daughter as they not only treat their disorders, but also helps them prepare to function in society as they grow. It is heartbreaking to see Mora around other children her age as they are beginning to transition from walking to running, they are beginning to use full sentences, and they are able to eat unassisted. Additionally, Mora has hundreds of seizures a day which are easily missed but impact her ability to understand the world around her and retain information. It is crucial that we continue to support Mora with treatments and therapies that allow her to still function in environments around other children her age. The CCC+ Medicaid Waiver program (and Medicaid program in general) provide Mora the ability to continue to grow with her friends, albeit at a slower rate and skill level. Mora will require long-term support to some degree, however with Medicaid support, we can provide therapies to her at an earlier age. Tackling these issues earlier provides her better tools and opportunities for integrating with society, being employed, and becoming less reliant on Medicaid support as she grows. This is true for many within the disability community as well. If left untreated and without their therapies, most in the disability community will develop more complex needs, require more advanced therapies/treatments, and will ultimately require more support from the Government long-term. Thank you for your time. -Jesse East
I work for the DoD in national security. I joined straight out of college; I took a polygraph to serve this nation before I was old enough to legally drink. This is my fourth year on the job, and I’m horrified by the treatment of the federal workforce. OPM’s direction to fire probationary employees almost resulted in the illegal termination of several coworkers before a judge blocked the order. A former intern in my office had just recently transitioned from an intern to a full-fledged employe, but that meant that despite the year they’d served as an intern, they were considered probationary. This employee is a top performer. They are hard-working, diligent, and intelligent—and as pressure mounts for DoD to enter a reduction in force, they’re among the first in line to be cut. I fielded questions from many new employees, most the same age or older than me. Nothing I could say to them would be as comforting as when our office leader acknowledge, “There’s what’s written in policy and law, and then there’s what they’re actually doing.” I never thought we’d be so happy to hear someone discuss the Pentagon breaking the law, but that was the moment I knew we weren’t crazy for being scared. America is built on the promise that hard work pays off. That if we pull ourselves up by the bootstraps, learn to excel, hone our talents, we’ll be rewarded. Seldom few lines are quoted as frequently as “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.” Yet those who chose to answer JFK’s rhetorical question, those who put blood, sweat, tears, and plenty of printer ink into defending America are now the president’s chosen prey. The brightest minds in security and defense are being fed through a wood chipper, or more accurately, Elon Musk’s chainsaw, and America is in danger because of it.
My name is Amber Stingel. I am 39 and disable due to an above the knee amputation on my left leg as well as other issues. Medicaid provides doctors, prescriptions, and waiver services to ensure I am able to stay home and be with my husband and kids. Without Medicaid I would be in some sort of home, and at the age of 39 that's just unacceptable. Being on disability I get paid once a month and Medicaid also helps to pay my Medicare fees each month. Without it I would not have the money to survive each month. Please ensure that federal funding cuts do not impact Medicaid and other care and services for people like me. There are so many of us who are depending on Medicaid to help take care of us and help our loved ones take care of us. You never know how hard it is until you get into this situation, which I hope none of you ever have to be in.
Greetings, I am writing to ask that everything that can be done to protect Medicaid be done. My husband and I care for our 4 year granddaughter that was born with two rare chromosome disorders. She is nonverbal, nonambulatory, has epilepsy, cerebral palsy and a whole host of other labels. She has LTSS and is on the CCC+ waiver. Without these resources we would not be able to care for her or to get her the medical attention she deserves and needs. I am asking you to please consider children and adults like my granddaughter whose lives depend on these services and work to protect funding. Thank you!
I am writing on behalf of the 52 labor organizations affiliated with the NoVA Labor Federation, AFL-CIO, to express our gratitude to the Speaker for establishing this Emergency Committee to address impacts of federal cuts on workers and the economy. We are appalled at the mass firings of dedicated federal employees – members of our federal employee unions -- and the cuts to vital programs. Both the state and local governments have a role to play in addressing this unfolding crisis. We look to the General Assembly to adopt programs such as enhanced unemployment benefits for unemployed federal workers and contract employees. Assistance in finding alternative employment including preferential hiring are also important. Local governments must recognize that we cannot build our economy around federal government employment and spending. Proposals that diversify and grow our economic base, such as an Entertainment District for Tysons Corner, should not be taken off the table without full consideration and input from all stakeholders. As you know, NoVA Labor unions strongly support a referendum to allow Fairfax County residents to vote on an Economic District with the potential for 5,000 private sector union jobs as well as revenue for the state and county. Such jobs can double the incomes of struggling families working in hospitality and construction. Gaming, which is only 5% of the proposed development, is a potential source of revenue; there are proposals that taxes on gaming in Virginia be increased further, and attached is an informational flyer on that issue. A looming recession will compound this crisis for working families. In addition to providing resources to laid off federal workers, we look to your leadership to proactively address the policies that contributed to destabilizing our democracy. Stepping back from the current crisis, the decline in private sector union density from 35% to less than 6% nationally in recent decades has led directly to vast income inequality, stagnating wages, concentration of wealth and power, and political polarization. There are no federal protections for the right to organize for private sector workers; workers who try to organize are fired. Because of broken labor laws, when millions of unionized jobs were outsourced, workers in the service economy were not given the right to unionize their industries to preserve middle class standards of living. We call upon state and local officials to take action to allow workers in the private sector to gain the right to form unions to rebalance the economy, empower the working class, and rebuild the underpinnings of a democratic civil society. In addition to channeling resources to fired federal workers, state and local leaders should use their leverage to give private sector workers the right to collectively bargain to support good union jobs.
Medicaid covers co-pays for my son’s therapies, surgeries, specialist visits and prescriptions. All of which he depends on to survive. It also pays a modest hourly wage to a loving personal care attendant to care for my son in our home, enabling me to work and stay afloat and enabling my son to remain living with our family. Without these services, we would be in financial ruin and his health would hang in the balance. We would need even more government services if I were not able to continue to work. Medicaid services are imperative for a productive society. Anyone can become disabled at any time. None of us are immune to medical issues that can turn our world upside down without any warning. Medicaid exists because health is a human right that must be protected. Our society’s very existence hinges on our moral commitment to a collective good, and all of will need and deserve support at some point in our lives. Rather than scrutinize and punish the hardworking and deserving families that depend on Medicaid services for survival, our government should be scrutinizing and governing the pharmaceutical companies who set prices that almost no one can afford. My son’s prescriptions alone cost $40,000 a year. My primary insurance through my employer pays the vast majority, and my co-pay is covered by Medicaid. I am incredibly grateful for this safety net, but if the pharmaceutical and insurance industries were regulated appropriately, there would be no need for one. The American people deserve fair, reasonable pricing for drugs and procedures, and fair, reasonable pricing and coverage by private insurance companies.
I am writing to implore Virginia lawmakers to protect and sustain Medicaid and Exceptional Education services for our children. My son was born with an ultra-rare brain tumor disorder that manifests in a complex chronic medical condition and a lifelong intellectual disability. He has seizures everyday, has been in puberty since he was 6 months old, has neurological rage attacks, profound non-speaking autism, and a profound intellectual disability. I am a single mother and work full-time to be able to provide for myself and my children. Before I knew about Medicaid services available to my son, I paid all medical bills with my primary insurance and then out of pocket, putting myself in debt and barely getting by. I am working hard to get myself out of debt to be able to provide a more stable future for my children, including a house of our own. Since accessing a Medicaid waiver in 2023, my son has been thriving. Thanks to the coverage that he qualifies for, he is able to receive the therapies, care and treatments he needs, and I am able to continue to work, earn, pay taxes and contribute to society. Coupled with the Exceptional Education services he receives as a kindergartener in public school, Medicaid is saving my son’s life and my entire family’s livelihood. So many critics of these services like to label them as “handouts” and question the character of the constituents accessing them. In reality, we are hardworking people, contributing to these programs our whole lives, and receiving the support we deserve and so desperately need to keep going. Please, please, protect and uphold these essential government programs for my family and so many others.
My beautiful 17 year old daughter has Down syndrome. We rely on Medicaid as her secondary insurance which covers co-pays for medical visits. More importantly, Medicaid provides the EDCD waiver which enables us to hire in-home attendant services for after school care. Our attendants help my daughter continue to advance her independence skills and academic progress . Our daily attendant works with her on homework (requires significant time and patience for her to accomplish what her peers can do in minutes, but she does accomplish it). The attendant also provides enrichment to keep my daughter productive and learning (healthy food choices, meal prep, socialization). We are working towards supported college programs that she can earn a spot in, this more opportunities for growth and independence. My husband and I both work full time in our office location, and have 45-minute commutes each way. The waiver enables us to keep working, and leverage Medicaid as secondary. Our daughter’s development matters; these supports provide the assistance we need to balance her needs with our stable employment. Please do. It cut Medicaid.
I have a 3 kids under Medicaid on of them had a severe autism and other diagnoses Medicaid it is a life saver for my children and many families a cut of Medicaid from deisibility people mean no therapy no medication no health benefits no life skills please help us keep Medicaid for loved ones
My name is Holly and I am the mother of an 8-year old son with Profound Autism. We depend on Medicaid for our medical and behavioral health care for our son. He just received the DD Waiver from DBHDS after 5 years of being on the waitlist. If Medicaid was cut and we didn’t have this Medicaid l-funded waiver, our family would literally collapse. My husband and I would not be able to keep our jobs and my son would likely end up in and out of crisis and potentially hospitalized for behavioral health concerns. It would impact negatively impact his education. We rely on Medicaid for his therapies and prescriptions. Please ensure any federal funding cuts do NOT impact Medicaid and other care and services for people with disabilities. Thank you for listening.
Please do not cut Medicaid for disabled persons. My child is disabled and, without Medicaid, she would not receive the medical care she needs.
I and the mother caring for two adult boys was significant disabilities ages 35 and 42. They have ann intellectual disability and muscular dystrophy, relying on a ventilator to stay alive. I provide along with my husband most of the care for the boys along with part time nursing care. The service is paid by Medicaid allow my boys to remain at home and not be forced into a nursing home. It is critical that service not be cut. My son requested that if he’s required to go into a nursing home that I discontinue feeding him. He would rather die than leave his home. My husband and I are in our 70s and fear for our children’s future. Thank you for listening. Pam Spiering
My name is John and I am the father of a 9 year old son with Profound Autism. We depend on Medicaid for our medical and behavioral health care for our son. He just received the DD Waiver from DBHDS after 6 years of being on the waitlist. If Medicaid was cut and we didn’t have this Medicaid l-funded waiver, our family would literally collapse. My wife and I would not be able to keep our jobs and my son would likely end up in and out of crisis and potentially hospitalized for behavioral health concerns. It would impact negatively impact his education. We rely on Medicaid for his therapies and prescriptions. Please ensure any federal funding cuts do NOT impact Medicaid and other care and services for people with disabilities. Thank you for listening.
I forgot to add - my name is Erika Schneider, I’m almost 48, I had two joint dislocations and I am unable to work after surgery was botched. I have complications including debilitating POTS syndrome & Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, a connective tissue disease. I was recently diagnosed and had no idea before this injury. I was denied disability as a result of being undiagnosed - I can’t imagine what would have happened yome without Medicaid. I went a year without insurance before the expansion because my insurance doubled in price during the first Trump administration - he deregulated the insurance marketplace between 2016-2020. I got sicker then but I went undiagnosed for years. Please save Medicaid expansion. I won’t survive without it
I was disabled by botched surgery, then Isas denied disability through SSI & SSDI. Medicaid on the expansion saved my life after losing my apartment & insurance. I need reconstructive surgery to be healthy enough to work again. I need to stay with specialists & take multiple medications to function & try to recover. I live in fear & cry everyday over the threat of losing Medicaid. I don’t understand who would be abusing or wasting their medic as l I dursnce - it’s not a party or something you can waste excessively. It’s so cruel to cut the one insurance available for disabled & chronically ill people
Most democrats are taxing us for years, and they still don’t care about our debt. We know Medicare and Medicaid will not be cut, but cleaned up from the waste. The left side keeps getting worse for hardworking folks like me who are trying to do their best and be self sufficient.
Please do not cut Medicaid funding for those with disabilities. Our 15 year old daughter with Down syndrome and complex medical needs including a feeding tube has the CCC Plus Medicaid waiver and will need a DD Waiver in a few years. She relies on Medicaid for attendant care, respite care, medications, medical supplies, 9 weekly therapy sessions, 19 specialists, etc. Without Medicaid we would not have the resources to care for her.
My name is Mark Woodward. I am the father and guardian of David Woodward, a 34 year old man with autism, intellectual disability, and cerebral palsy. He was granted a medicaid waiver in 2013, which pays for the services he receives. At present he receives both adult day and residential services from Chimes Virginia in Fairfax County, which are paid for by his medicaid waiver. Prior to receiving the waiver, we were unable to find any appropriate programs that accepted adults with special needs without either Medicaid or county funding. Medicaid is also his primary provider of health insurance. My wife and I are very worried about what will happen to Medicaid as our administration seeks to cut government funding. If Medicaid funding for our son were to be cut, I really don't know what would do. I suppose he would return home. But I am 70 years old, my wife is 69, and it is increasingly difficult for us to handle and take care of David. And we are not getting any younger. With his disabilities, he is not capable of living on his own. Even if he did not lose the funding for his waiver, if Medicaid reimbursements in Virginia were to be reduced, this would have a significant impact on our son. The industry providing services to individuals with special needs has been in crisis ever since the pandemic. It has become very difficult to recruit and retain direct service providers (DSPs). Any reduction in Medicaid reimbursement rates would likely mean reductions in DSP wages, which would make it even more difficult to recruit and retain the staff that supports our son. Consequently, I strongly encourage our Delegates, Senators, and Governor to ensure that any federal funding cuts do not impact Medicaid and other care and services for people with disabilities. Thank you for you attention. Sincerely, Mark Woodward 909 Lullaby Lane SE Vienna VA 22180 703-463-1361 mcw.mark@yahoo.com
I am writing in the memory of my son, Doran Coady, who died at age 18 as a direct result of being institutionalized when the DD waiver system under Medicaid failed to provide adequate supports for him to stay in his home. Doran relied completely on Medicaid for DD waiver services, and they were insufficient before the impact of any Federal funding cuts. I now advocate for Doran's peers on his behalf. If Medicaid is cut, DD waiver services will be even less available and of an even lower quality than what resulted in his death. For their sakes, please ensure any Federal funding cuts do NOT impact Medicaid and other care and services for people with disabilities. Thank you for your service and for your consideration of Doran's tragic experience.
I am reaching out because families like mine with medically complex children need your support in fighting the cuts to Medicaid and the ACL, which would help give my son his rightful place to live in community with respect and dignity. The ability to receive what he needs without shame. The ability to make decisions about his own life. My son spent three months in the NICU fighting for his life after I carried him full term and suffered a birth complication. He cannot rely on verbal speech, does not have bilateral use of his hands, and uses Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC). Due to cerebral palsy he’s in a wheelchair, he also has impaired vision. We’ve navigated NG tubes, Farrell Valve bags, feeding boot camps, broken durable medical equipment processes, PT, OT, Speech, vision impairment adaptations, school accommodations, and IEPs. I have also served as Past President of Arlington County Special Education PTA. We are devoted to supporting him and giving him a good quality of life, alongside other families of children with disabilities in our village of mutual care. This is only possible with attendant and respite care, talented medical care, prescription drugs, and amazing therapists so he can function and live to his fullest potential. We’ve done this without scarcity up until now. Losing Medicaid (Virginia’s Cardinal Care) and community living opportunities would be devastating. Families like ours, and individuals with disabilities, will be stripped of their lifeline. While fear and uncertainty dominate the news, it has always been a daunting part of our family’s lives. The "what ifs" have kept us hyper-vigilant since day one of our son’s life. The Administration for Community Living was established in 2012 to bring together aging and disability programs across Health and Human Services in recognition that most people in these populations live in the community and want to remain there. That’s their village of mutual care. The agency funds over 2,500 community organizations nationwide, including centers for independent living, advocacy systems, developmental disabilities councils, and more. My sister also has multiple disabilities, uses a wheelchair, and relies on Medicaid and ACL. She lives independently in a townhome with several roommates who help with caregiving and daily life. They are her friends and village. Please do not create more of an equity gap and let them stay connected. Please do not deny my son the opportunity to live independently—he will tell you using his assistive device that he doesn’t want to live with his dad and me forever. Please OPPOSE ANY PROPOSAL TO CUT MEDICAID OR ACL to pay for tax credits in the budget reconciliation package. Please don’t take away the funding that gives our family and millions of others a lifeline. It’s an attack on the most vulnerable. Please don’t dehumanize people like my son. He hopes to graduate high school, go to college, become a special education teacher, and start a family of his own. He is a loving brother, son, grandson, nephew, cousin, friend, service dog handler, student, teacher—someone who shouldn’t have to suffer. Thank you for your support. Best wishes, Jenn Seiff jseiff@gmail.com 5501 Washington Blvd Arlington, VA 22205
Good [morning/afternoon], esteemed members of the General Assembly, Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to speak with you today. My name is Alicia Griffin. I am 51 years of age, and I’ve been living gracefully with Multiple Sclerosis since 2004—due in part to the incredible medical team that has supported me from the very beginning. That team has included a wide range of specialists: neurologists, physical therapists, and cognitive care doctors who have worked together not just to keep my M.S. under control and prevent paralysis, but also to preserve my memory and sense of self. Because of their care, I’m still here, standing strong. But let me be clear: I rely heavily on Medicaid to afford the medications that make this possible. I have experienced blood clots in my heart and lungs. Without one particular pill, my heart could stop at any moment. There is no alternative for me. No backup plan. These benefits are not luxuries—they are lifelines. Without them, I simply would not be able to survive. No care would mean no life. The recent and proposed cuts to federal funding put lives like mine—and countless others—at risk. And I am not alone. There are thousands in our state who depend on these services to manage chronic illnesses, to stay out of hospitals, to remain contributing members of society. When federal support is reduced, the burden shifts to the state. I urge you today, not just to hear my story, but to act on behalf of those who cannot be in this room. Fight for the funding that protects our most vulnerable. Preserve the programs that give people like me a chance not just to survive, but to live with dignity. Thank you for your time, your service, and your willingness to listen.
I have been a widow since 2023 and have 3 teen sons. 2 of my boys have significant autism and life long disabilities. They will need to live with an adult their entire lives and are on the VA DD FIS Medicaid waiver. What keeps me up at night is if we lose this program, what will happen to their day programs, work programs, housing programs, healthcare and attendants. How will my neurotypical child care for his brothers after I pass away? This is a heavy burden to place on a child but to leave him with no supports is unbearable. How will he work when I’m no longer able to care for them or pass away? I can’t work. Reliable sitters are so hard to find for disabled teens with autistic behaviors. The boys require constant supervision and assistance and one is constantly home between illness, medical needs, holidays and school breaks. With the department of education cuts, who knows what school will be like for them to even attend soon. My oldest son can not communicate without an aid and needs to be changed throughout the day but can access the general education curriculum. My other son also requires significant levels of supervision and supports throughout his school day but he loves school. I am very worried about DOE cuts. Due to my kids needs, my only income is working as their Medicaid attendant since my husband passed away. So if we lose Medicaid, we lose any babysitter help I can find which is rare and I lose my job. Furthermore, my hours were cut in half in March of 2024 by a DMAS rule that restricted hours for single parents with multiple children with disabilities. VA HB909 was passed to reverse this discrimination and despite being signed by the Governor was never enacted. HB909 has been stuck in CMS since September of 2024. No one can help. I’ve now been paid half my salary for more than a year and will lose the other half if we lose Medicaid.
Dear Members of the Virginia General Assembly, As the Director of Education and Workforce Development at the Virginia Restaurant, Lodging, and Travel Association, my experience includes facilitating pathways to meaningful employment within the hospitality sector for individuals with disabilities, among others. Additionally, through my work as a volunteer with Jacob's Chance—a nonprofit organization that empowers individuals with disabilities—I have seen the significant impact that inclusive community programming and practices can make. Medicaid-funded programs play a critical role, not just in the care and support of individuals with disabilities, but also in preparing them for the workforce. These programs provide necessary training and support services that help develop the skills required to secure and maintain employment. This is not only vital for the individuals involved, providing a sense of autonomy and purpose, but it also benefits our economy and society as a whole. Employing individuals with disabilities brings diverse perspectives to the workplace, enhances creative solutions, and improves employee morale. Moreover, when these individuals earn wages, they also contribute to the economy through taxes and reduced dependency on state resources. However, the backbone of this successful integration into the workforce is the robust support of Medicaid-funded programming. Medicaid funding further ensures that individuals with disabilities receive the necessary care, including medical care and behavioral therapies, that are essential for them to perform their best at work. Cutting Medicaid funding would jeopardize these programs and, by extension, the potential of many capable individuals who could contribute positively to our local and state economies. A reduction in funding would not only hinder the quality and availability of these critical services but could also stall the progress we have made toward an inclusive workforce, something I have dedicated my career to. I urge you to consider the broader impact of Medicaid-funded programs. They are not just a lifeline for citizens with disabilities, but also a crucial building block for a more diverse and robust economy. Protecting this funding should be a priority to ensure that every Virginian, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive in and contribute to our society. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I am confident that with thoughtful consideration of your constituents’ futures, you will see the value in upholding the funding for these essential services. Respectfully, Dr. Jessica “Jai” Girard, PhD Director of Education and Workforce Development Virginia Restaurant, Lodging, and Travel Association
Dear Members of the Virginia General Assembly, My name is Dawn Ward and I am the mother of two adult sons, William, age 28, and Atticus, age 30, who both have Fragile X Syndrome, an intellectual disability that significantly impacts their daily functioning and quality of life. We reside in Richmond, Virginia, where they rely on the Virginia Medicaid Community Living Waiver for their essential services. The quality of Medicaid-funded programs is not just a policy issue; it is a daily reality that directly affects the well-being and happiness of my sons. Atticus, for example, has faced challenges in finding suitable day support services that can accommodate his needs and enhance his quality of life. A previous negative experience in a day support facility highlighted the crucial need for services that are not only available but are of high quality and properly monitored. This facility failed to meet even basic standards, which significantly impacted Atticus's behavior and emotional well-being. Cuts to Medicaid would exacerbate the oversight challenges in these programs, increasing the risk of neglect and abuse for vulnerable individuals like my son Atticus, who have suffered in inadequately funded environments. Medicaid covers all of their living expenses, as they are unable to provide for themselves. This funding is essential as it affords me the ability to serve as their 24/7 caretaker, providing a vital alternative to institutionalization or placing them in poorly funded group homes that have proven to be dangerous for such individuals. Additionally, Medicaid supports their comprehensive medical care including medications, doctor visits, and behavioral therapies. These services are crucial for helping my sons manage their condition and strive to be the best versions of themselves. Since moving to Richmond and finding programs like Jacob's Chance and River City Inclusive Gym, I have witnessed firsthand how the right support can profoundly affect their social interactions, independence, and overall happiness. These positive environments contrast sharply with our prior experiences and underscore the necessity of stringent oversight and commitment to quality in Medicaid-funded programs, something that just isn’t feasible without proper funding. It is imperative that we maintain and enhance Medicaid funding to ensure that these programs not only exist but also provide high-quality, dignified, and effective support. As I have witnessed first hand through my sons’ experiences, the difference between a poorly run program and one that excels can be life-changing for individuals with disabilities, individuals who deserve every opportunity to lead fulfilling lives. As you consider the implications of federal funding adjustments, I urge you to protect and prioritize Medicaid funding for disability services. Our community's most vulnerable members rely on these services for their day-to-day health, safety, and happiness. Quality care is not just a benefit; it is a necessity and a basic human right. Thank you for considering this critical perspective. I trust that your decisions will reflect the profound impact these programs have on individuals like my sons. Sincerely, Dawn Ward, M.Ed. Advocate and Mother Richmond, Virginia
Dear Members of the Virginia General Assembly, My name is Dr. Mallori Girard, and I am writing to express my deep concern over the potential federal funding cuts to Medicaid. I am currently supporting two young men, ages 28 and 30, who live with Fragile X Syndrome. This genetic condition has profound impacts on their cognitive, social, and functional capabilities. They are not self-sufficient and rely entirely on Medicaid-funded services for their daily needs, medical care, and continued well-being. Medicaid is not merely a program for them; it is a lifeline. It covers their critical medical appointments, necessary therapies, and supports them in a sponsored residential setting which provides the structured environment they require. Without Medicaid, the alternative for them would be institutionalization, an outcome that would not only diminish their quality of life but would also be a regressive step against our societal progress in supporting individuals with disabilities in more integrated settings. The potential cuts to Medicaid funding deeply worry me. These cuts would jeopardize the health, safety, and stability of these young men and countless others like them. Without these supports, their families would face unimaginable financial and emotional burdens, potentially leading to life-threatening situations as consistent and professional care becomes unattainable. I urge you, as our representatives, to ensure that any federal funding cuts do not impact Medicaid and the essential services it provides for people with disabilities. We must protect the most vulnerable members of our community from bearing the brunt of fiscal adjustments. Thank you for your attention to this critical issue and for your continued commitment to the health and welfare of all Virginians. Sincerely, Dr. Mallori Girard, PhD Advocacy Professional North Dinwiddie, Virginia
We are a retired couple living in Northern Virginia. My husband devoted over 30 years to teaching in Fairfax County Public Schools. I taught special education for 15 years before continuing my public service at a nonprofit. When COVID funding disappeared, I transitioned to a full-time role in higher education as a multimedia developer. Even in our 70s, we remain dedicated to serving others. Our youngest daughter is a survivor of unimaginable trauma and is now totally disabled. We adopted her as a toddler after she was found in a near-catatonic state, having suffered profound neurological damage from extreme abuse, neglect, and intentional starvation. She cannot speak but uses sign language to communicate her needs. Every day is a fight—for her and for us. Because of her trauma history, she suffers from seizures and self-injurious behaviors. But thanks to the CCC Plus Medicaid Waiver, we’ve been able to keep her at home, surrounded by love, safety, and stability. Medicaid makes it possible for her to access vital therapies and medications that cost nearly $40,000 a year—costs we could never manage on our own. Without this support, our daughter would almost certainly be institutionalized. And for her, that wouldn’t just mean regression. It would mean death. Our daughter is not invisible. Years ago, the Washington Post profiled her progress—how tennis therapy through Skyline Onelife Fitness was helping her find connection and joy. She continues to make slow but meaningful strides in our community. She is a beautiful young woman of color with so much to give this world. We refuse to believe that the days of hiding children like her away are returning—but with looming cuts to Medicaid, we are terrified. If her Medicaid coverage is reduced or taken away, we risk losing not only the care that keeps her alive—but also our home. We, her parents, are committed to carrying the weight of her care. But we cannot do it alone. We need Medicaid to continue doing our part, just as we’ve always done ours. Please—do not abandon families like ours. Do not cast our daughter aside. Thanks for listening. With urgency and hope, Nancy, David Zoe and Bekah
My name is Leah Kania and I am a physical therapist with Infant Toddler Connection of Fairfax/Falls Church. Through our early intervention program, we are able to provide vital services to children ages birth to 3 with developmental delays. A majority of these children are on medicaid due to their medical history or financial means. Cuts to medicaid would be devastating not only to the families that rely on these services but to the early intervention programs through out our state. Our services are vital in preparing children to function not only in their family units but to prepare them for school and provide vital intervention at a time when the child's brain is developing at a fast rate. Prevention at a young age will set them up for success in the future and likely reduce their need for assistance in the future. We must continue to support our children. Thank you
I am 74 years of age, am blind,and I am worried about my insurance. Last June, I fell in my shower, and displaced my elbow and had multiple fractures to my radius and humerus. I had extensive surgery, and went through months of physical therapy. My ulner nerve is also affected, so I am seeking a second opinion, as I am still in pain. I exist on a very low income, and without Medicaid I would have a secondary disability. Having Medicare and Medicaid has also assisted me in getting dentures, which I could not otherwise afford. Please do not make serious cuts to the Medicaid program. This will affect rural residents of Virginia , who rely on local hospitals. . These hospitals could not stay open without access to Medicaid funds. Nursing homes would not be available to seniors, persons with disabilities, and persons recovering from surgery or long illness. Funding cuts would also affect persons with disabilities who live alone in the community and need aides and healthcare support. Thank you for reading this long and somewhat detailed message. Mary Mathena
My son Randall is 56 years old and is totally disabled, functioning at a very low intellectual level. He uses a wheelchair and needs support in all areas of daily living. He is frequently in the hospital, most recently for kidney stones. He depends on the Medicaid Waiver for his residential, day and health care services. I am 86 years old. At my age it would be impossible for me to takeover his daily care. And I'm not the only one with this issue. Plus, the waiting list for the Medicaid Waiver is very long right now. With the closure of the Norther Virginina Training Center, there are few alternatives that are suitable for him. Please ensure that Federal funding cuts do not impact Medicaid and other care and services for people with disablities. Thank you for reading this letter and taking action of behalf of Randall and other individuals with disabilities.
My name is Sheila McLean. I am the mother of a 28-year-old son with developmental disabilities and Autism. He receives Medicaid support through the DD Waiver program, which provides attendant care, respite, help with prescription copays & therapy. He was on a waiting list for this waiver support for 15+ years, and just began receiving the help last year. Without this support my son would be unable to work his part time job. He cannot be left home alone for more than short periods and would not have the support needed to eventually live semi-independently. My husband and I are getting older and my husband just had a stroke. We worry about what will happen to him when we can no longer care for him and hope to transition him into some kind of supported care situation that will require Medicaid support. Our son is not alone. There are millions of disabled and elderly people who rely on Medicaid for the most basic services - bathing, shaving, laundry, food preparation, critical therapies and more. These people are not "parasites" as Elon Musk called them. They are wonderful, cherished members of families and communities who often contribute far more than they take. My son, for instance, regularly volunteers at church to serve the homeless and deliver furniture, food and other items to struggling families. A society is best judged by how we treat the least of us - not the wealthiest. We urge you to oppose cuts to Medicaid and other programs serving the disabled to fund more tax cuts for billionaires. It is unconscienable to even be discussing these cuts given the many other challenges these individuals face. Attached is a picture of my son who loves to dance. This was taken at the Night to Shine event. Thank you for your time and continued committment to serving our community's most vulnerable citizens. Sheila and Daniel McLean 416 Millwood Ct. SW Vienna, VA 22180 202-595-5958
I am the parentvof two adult sons, both 36, with disabilities,l. They each receive and benefit from the Medicaid waiver. After 8 years of waiting for the waiver, my son Corey's world totally changed more than a dozen years ago.. His self help skills grew, he was able to move into an apartment of his own, and as he likes to say, have "a life like yours". He achieved independence that I could never have imagined. With the help of his support providers, he maintains his apartment, cooks, practices healthy habits and is able to manage his diabetes, and has drastically reduced his anxiety and increasd his skills in problem solving. Due to his motor coordination issues, things like cooking, sweeping, vacumning, and just general maintenance are difficult. He gets overwhelmed with unexpected events and has learned to manage calls or knocks on the door without getting upset. He has developed calming strategies. He is much more confident, has friends, works jobs with support from a job coach (also due to the waiver) and is happy. He is a role model to many. My son Jordan ,for whom.i am guardian , received a priority waiver because his father was older and could not manage him.. When I met Jordan, his whole life consisted of sitting on the floor, rocking. and playing video games while eating macaroni with a spoon. He entered group.homes and with support has learned to cook light meals, do his laundry, take care of his dog, and exercise. He receives support for behavior (he has been a chronic head banger since age 4), medication management, assistance managing his medication and health (he has autism, intellectual disability, and a traumatic brain injury). His balance has been significantly impacted and in home supports ensure his safety. His cognitive issues have led to attempts to take advantage of him and his supports have prevented that from happening. He moved from.a boy who didn't want friends and didn't believe in people and love to someone who gas friends and wants to engage in his community. He even works one day a week at a doggie daycare with support from the Medicaid waiver. He would not have made this growth without the Medicaid waiver. There are no words other than my overwhelming gratitude to express how important the Medicaid waiver has been for both of my sons. I am a widow, age 68, and beginning retirement July 1. Everyday I am confronted with not just my future (I can handle that) but of those of my sons. The supports they receive from Medicaid are the reason that I know they will be okay. We are a small but mighty family who needs and benefits from the help we receive from Medicaid. These two men who are incredible human beings are each faced with there own challenges but who also contribute to society are deserviing of good lives. Without the support they receive from Medicaid, their lives would become limited and soulless. With Medicaid, they will continue to grow in skills and as humans.
My daughter has Down syndrome and is a wonderful person, but she needs support. Without the Medicaid Waiver, she may be left with no support and be left with nothing but time in the basement - away from others who would be blessed by knowing her. Please do not reduce the supports to individuals with disabilities who have such gifts to share with us.
Our family has relied on a Medicaid waiver for 10 years, which has funded direct support professionals / attendants to supervise/support/care for our autistic son. Our son requires someone with him at all times to ensure that he doesn’t escape from our house, break into food, eat non-food items, and more recently to complete an online homeschool curriculum on nights and weekends (because our local schools are not able to educate him, as he communicates on a letterboard). We are upstanding citizens who both work full time, in addition to founding and running a non-profit that trains and employs people with disabilities. We cannot go to the bathroom, cook meals, or attend our daughter’s sports events, much less take care of our work responsibilities without the life-saving assistance provided by these Medicaid-funded assistants. We would rely to a much greater degree on public assistance, and perhaps have to declare bankruptcy and sell our home, if we could not rely on Medicaid to help us carry on with our lives. There are no government-funded institutions to take care of our son. He cannot just hang out at home on his own while we work. We need professional help and have figured out how to manage all of it, despite the complexities of staffing, annual paperwork, and reporting requirements for every hour that a Medicaid-funded worker is with our son. We carry on. We contribute to the tax base, not to mention to the community through our non-profit. Without Medicaid, we could not afford to pay out of pocket for all of the support services that we would need for our son in order for us to continue working and contributing to our community, state, and country in a way that more than financially compensates for the cost of Medicaid to the Commonwealth of Virginia . Medicaid makes it possible for our household to function, quite frankly. On a larger scale, Medicaid support for disabled citizens makes it possible for the state to stay out of the institutionalization business and leave disabled people at home with the people who love them, and who have figured out a way forward, despite the many other hurdles we face, due to a disability that no one planned for. PLEASE DO NOT TAKE AWAY THIS LIFELINE. Families like mine are not abusing the system; we are using it as an instrument that makes it possible for us to do all the other things that other upstanding citizens need to do to live a normal, tax-paying, contributory, decent life.
My name is Heather and I live in northern Virginia. I am 57 years old with a slow information disability and mobility issue. Medicade is a safety Blanket. If federal funding cuts happen I would lose a housing waiver that I am in the process of applying for and access to other programs that would set me up to live a much better quality of life. I am worried that funding cut off of Medicade would greatly impact thousands of people who are vulnerable with disabilities and have complex medical histories in virginia and can't advocate for themselves . You have a great opportunity to make a huge positive difference, please ensure that federal funding cuts do not have that impact. Thank you for listening
I am medical director of a mental health clinic in Fairfax, VA. We celebrated our 25th year in business this year. We serve thousands of children, adolescents and adults in the area. We have noticed a significant negative effect on our business in the last two months. Many folks have cancelled their appointments, cut back therapy significantly, and not because they're doing better. "My dad lost his job." "I can't afford to keep coming." Our billings have decreased about 10% per month steadily. On the other hand, folks are calling daily, wanting to inquire about mental health services. Most of them are shopping for services at reduced rates - which we offer - or prefer to get referred to county mental health services. Our fixed costs (rent, administrative staff - we employ 25 people!) continue - and we can continue in business for now, but we will not be able to sustain our business if things continue to be so dire with our local economy.
We need more hours for disabled son
Based on Ivy Main’s article “With vetoes and destructive amendments...,” I urge that the House of Delegates reject Gov. Youngkin’s amendments to the following bills which were passed to address climate change: HB 2537 (Sullivan), energy storage HB 1883 (Callsen), solar incentives HB2346 (Hernandez), “virtual power plants (VPP)” and maybe HB 2087 (Shin), planning charging stations in rural areas Like your HB 1625, Sullivan’s HB 2091 and Shin’s HB2087 sought to help other parts of the state. Of course, there were a number of other vetoes issued in the governor’s war on measures to address climate change and on their advocates.
My husband and I are in our 70's and have an adult son with severe autism and intellectual disabilities. His Virginia Medicaid waiver is a lifeline which will provide for basic care when we are no longer living. He and others like him rely heavily on this assistance and many of them would have no place to go but the street without it. I urge you to preserve Medicaid-funded disability programs.
My name is Hugh McGeehan, IV. I am 33 years old. I have a diagnosis of Autism. My POA is assisting in writing this plea. I rely on Medicaid for my disability waiver. I lost my caregiver 7 years ago. I have noone. Having Medicaid has allowed me to live independently. I receive daily living assistance in making healthy meals, taking my daily medication, doing laundry, housekeeping, budgeting and have social outings. I also require medical, dental and vision services. Medicaid helps me to remain healthy and to live independently. I take medication to manage my weight and cholesterol. If my Medicaid is cut, I would become homeless and would not be able to live independently. I would not receive the care that I need. I do not not have any other family member to care for me. Please ensure any federal funding cuts do NOT impact Medicaid and other care and services for people with disabilities. I appreciate your time and consideration.
Dear Members of the Virginia General Assembly, My name is Ian Allan. I am 25 years old and have been diagnosed with Atypical Autism (PDD-NOS). I am reaching out to you today to share my experience and express my deep concern regarding the impact of Medicaid policies on individuals with disabilities. For much of my life, I have relied heavily on Medicaid to access essential healthcare services, including doctor visits, therapies, and prescriptions. Unfortunately, private insurance alone does not adequately cover the comprehensive care I require to maintain my overall health and well-being. Medicaid has been a critical lifeline, ensuring that I can receive the necessary treatments and services to manage my condition and sustain a decent quality of life. However, as of January 30, 2025, I was effectively cut off from Medicaid. Since then, accessing even the most basic healthcare services has become an overwhelming challenge. Although I am an established patient at my family’s primary care practice, scheduling an appointment has been nearly impossible due to severe overbooking. Additionally, I have preexisting medical conditions that, if left untreated, will progressively deteriorate my health, limiting my ability to remain active and independent. The consequences of losing Medicaid are not hypothetical—I have already faced a life-threatening medical emergency without adequate coverage. This past winter, I developed a severe infection that escalated into both sepsis and pneumonia. I was told that if I had waited just one more day to seek care, I would not have survived. Situations like this highlight the critical importance of timely and accessible healthcare. Without Medicaid, I fear that future emergencies may not be met with the urgent care I need, putting my life at unnecessary risk. Without Medicaid, my only alternative is to apply for private insurance that covers only the most basic services—an option that is woefully inadequate given my medical needs. I am deeply concerned that without comprehensive coverage, I will not receive the care necessary to preserve my health and longevity. My experiences with the medical system have already shown me the stark reality of insufficient care, and I fear that, without intervention, I may one day face another preventable medical crisis. I urge you to ensure that any proposed federal or state funding cuts do not affect Medicaid or other essential services for individuals with disabilities. It is crucial that these programs remain fully funded so that people like me can continue to access the care we need to survive and lead fulfilling lives. Thank you for your time and attention to this urgent matter. I appreciate your commitment to serving our community, and I hope you will take action to protect Medicaid and uphold the well-being of individuals with disabilities. Sincerely, Ian Allan
One and a half years ago, after many years on the waiting list, our 43 year old son, Paul was finally able to access the DD Waiver service for a host home. Paul was born with autism, and his school years were tumultuous as school personnel and our family struggled to help Paul develop and learn. In his mid 20s he developed a mental illness, and that required a huge shift in how Paul related to the world around him. Once he turned 40 we knew we had to begin really planning for his future before my husband and I were sick or gone. His sponsored home has been a God send. Paul has been able to develop a trusting relationship with his provider and Paul has grown in independence and developed healthy living habits that we had not been able to help him achieve. His Medicaid benefits also pay for his health care and pharmacy. We fear that without the services of the DD Waiver, Paul will regress. My son lives very simply, but getting out into the community, being more independent and learning how to take care of his health provide him the dignity he deserves. I ask that you ensure that any federal funding cuts do NOT impact Medicaid and other care and services for people with disabilities. Thank you for listening. I know as state legislators, you are being burdened with impossible funding decisions. Please prioritize the needs of people with developmental disabilities. They have waited so long.
Please protect people with disabilities from Medicaid cuts. My wife and I have a nonverbal adult autistic son who has lived a relatively independent life in a supported apartment funded by a Medicaid waiver. Without Medicaid supports he - and many other people with disabilities - would end up in an institutional setting which is more expensive and more restrictive. There is a reason that the country largely closed institutions in the 1970’s. Thank you. Dr. Gary Hecht
I am writing on behalf of Michael Polk, 34.9 years of age with a diagnosis of Autism. I am his legal guardian. Michael relies on Medicaid for his disability waiver where he receives daily living assistance in making meals, doing laundry, housekeeping, budgeting, community outings, etc. He also requires medical, dental and vision services. Medicaid helps him to remain healthy and to live independently. If his Medicaid is cut, Michael would not be able to live independently and the supports that he receives to live independently would end. His parents are almost at the age of retirement and would not be able to care for him. Please ensure any federal funding cuts do NOT impact Medicaid and other care and services for people with disabilities. Thank you for your time. God bless you.
My daughter, Kyra Renaud, age 22, had a hemorrhagic stroke when she was a baby. She relies on Medicaid for her healthcare, including neurological care, speech therapy, and primary care. She needs this insurance. Please do not agree to Medicaid cuts!
I am writing to express my deep concern about the impact of proposed cuts to federal Medicaid on Virginia, and to urge you to stand firmly in support of protecting this vital program. Medicaid is not just a safety net; it is a lifeline for millions of Americans, especially individuals with disabilities and their families. Any reductions in Medicaid funding would have devastating consequences, particularly for Medicaid Waiver programs, which are essential in providing long-term care and support for some of our most vulnerable citizens. The Medicaid Waiver program is optional, thus particularly at risk to cuts. Medicaid Waivers are the cornerstone of care for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to live at home and in their communities rather than being placed in institutional settings. Home- and community-based services funded through Waivers are not only more cost-effective but also far more desirable for individuals and families. These programs allow people to live with dignity, independence, and a higher quality of life. Cutting Medicaid funding would jeopardize these critical supports, leaving families in impossible situations and forcing many individuals into costly institutional care, which is both less effective and more expensive in the long run. Furthermore, reducing Medicaid funding would undermine Governor Youngkin’s important initiatives, including his landmark plan to serve the entirety of the Priority One Medicaid Waiver Developmental Disability waiting list and his "Right Help, Right Now" program. These efforts aim to address the long-standing backlog of families waiting for Waiver services and to expand access to care for those who need it most. Cutting funding at this juncture would be a direct setback to these crucial initiatives, leaving families stranded without the services they desperately need. Medicaid Waivers also play an integral role in supporting the economy and our communities. They create jobs for caregivers, allowing individuals to earn a living while providing essential services. They help families remain in the workforce by ensuring their loved ones receive the care they need during the day. Additionally, they enable public schools to bill Medicaid for the therapies and services that Waiver users receive, relieving financial strain on school districts. In short, Medicaid and its Waiver programs are not expendable. They are a lifeline for individuals with disabilities, a critical support for families, and a smart investment in our communities. Cuts to Medicaid funding would devastate families, overwhelm institutional care systems, and undercut the progress made in ensuring access to care for all who need it. We must stand together as Virginians and protect this program. I urge you to protect Medicaid and its Waiver programs from funding reductions. Doing so is not only the compassionate choice but also the fiscally responsible one. Please continue to advocate for the individuals and families who rely on these programs to survive and thrive. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. I look forward to your response and hope to see your continued leadership on behalf of our community.
If federal or state employees are not doing their jobs properly like the rest out there, then they should be let go. They should be held accountable and return to the building like the majority of American people. I know that there are many government employees who rented a van or trailer traveling place to place. They just check in and did the minimum. Again, low expectations and standards from the Democrats.
I am grateful for the transparency of our recent government being transparent about our tax dollars. Now several Democrats are upset because Americans the truth about where our money has been spent on for years.
We are a loosely connected group of approximately 200 Virginians who have been directly impacted by the shutdown of USAID programs and the abrupt halt to U.S. foreign assistance. We are part of the thousands of federal employees, contractors, NGO staff, and business owners across Virginia who have lost jobs and livelihoods in the past two months. We estimate that between 2,000 and 4,000 Virginians will lose their jobs or careers due to USAID-related cuts between February 27 and September 1, 2025. Beyond the immediate hardship to ourselves and our families, we are deeply concerned about the broader impact of these federal funding cuts on Virginia’s economy and our local communities. Enclosed are our recommendations to the Virginia General Assembly for tangible steps—through budget language or new legislation—to assist affected workers in the short term and strengthen our economic resilience in the long term. In the near term, we urge the General Assembly to take decisive action to support unemployed and underemployed Virginians bearing the brunt of recent federal policy and funding changes. This includes strengthening safety nets and ensuring that the Commonwealth remains not only a great place for business, but also a state that values and protects its workers. We also call on the General Assembly to take a proactive role in retaining and redeploying the highly skilled talent being lost from the federal workforce. Virginia has an opportunity to lead in shaping a more adaptive, future-ready economy. One key step is to amend the authority around the ~$2 billion Statutory Revenue Reserve Fund to enable its strategic use in this effort.