Public Comment Now Open for Proposed Waiver
posted
on Friday, January 16, 2026
Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has opened a five-week public comment period on the proposed Adults with Disabilities Waiver, part of the state’s HOME (Hope and Opportunity in Many Environments) project. This new waiver is designed to help adults with disabilities access services that support living at home and in their communities.
If approved, the Adults with Disabilities Waiver would begin October 1, 2026.
What the Adults with Disabilities Waiver Would Do
This waiver would provide additional Medicaid services for home and community-based services (HCBS)—on top of regular Medicaid benefits—to help adults with disabilities get the support they need while living at home or in their communities.
The goal of the waiver is to make it easier for adults with disabilities to access services that help them stay safely at home, rather than in hospitals, nursing facilities, or other institutional settings.
A full, easy-to-read overview is available here: Adults with Disabilities Waiver Quick Guide
How to Share Your Comments
Iowa HHS is seeking input from adults with disabilities, family members, caregivers, and community members.
- Public comment is open: January 12, 2026 – February 13, 2026 (11:59 p.m. CT)
- Submit comments by mail:
Iowa Department of Health and Human Services
Iowa Medicaid
312 East 12th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319 - Submit comments by email: HCBS_Public_Comment@hhs.iowa.gov
- Please use the subject line: “HCBS new HOME Waivers”
Click here to view more information on how to submit successful comments.
Why Public Comment Matters
Public input helps Iowa HHS understand what adults with disabilities need to live safely, independently, and with the right level of support. Comments can address:
- How easy or difficult current waiver access is
- What services or supports are most important
- Any questions or concerns about eligibility or assessments
- Experiences with current disability-based waivers
Your voice can help shape how the waiver is implemented.