Federal Budget Impacts on Councils and Disability Services in Louisiana

Plain Language Summary

Last week, the Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council learned about a federal budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) that showed cuts to Councils and other important programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). While this is concerning, there is still a lot of work and conversations that need to happen before Congress passes a budget. No final decisions or proposals have been made.

Detailed Statement

On Wednesday, April 16th, an internal federal budget document was leaked to the public which raised many concerns for intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) stakeholders. This document from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) proposed cuts of 30% to the Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS) budget for next year, and outlined various plans to reorganize programs including the elimination of State Developmental Disabilities Councils and Protection & Advocacy

Agencies.

OMB and DHHS are in the early stages of discussing the FY26 budget. Proposals such as the one leaked last week are known as “passbacks” because departments and OMB frequently exchange amended proposals back and forth as they negotiate a new operating budget. It is uncommon for the public to see these documents prior to these negotiations. Typically, the final proposal is made available
during public hearings of the House and Senate.

While this document is concerning, stakeholders are reminded to stay vigilant. Our national partner, the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD), is working with national and state disability groups to determine an appropriate and strategic response.

The Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council’s main objective is to ensure the I/DD community is protected and their voices are heard. As this process unfolds and new information becomes available, the Council and LaCAN will keep you updated and share ways you can take action.