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Advocating Today for a Better Tomorrow
As a nonpartisan organization, EPI is committed to advocating for the needs of our community. Whether it’s ensuring access to vital supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) or access to quality child care for families, we work hard to provide timely, accurate information that impacts the lives of Iowans.
There is Strength in Numbers
Advocacy is a team effort. Whether you're contacting legislators, sharing personal stories, or simply raising awareness, every action makes a difference.
Together, we can create a more inclusive world — one where opportunity, independence, and the ability to thrive is available to all.
Our Top Advocacy Priority: Protecting Medicaid Access
On July 3, 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the sweeping FY25 budget bill, following the Senate’s approval earlier that week. This new law includes $930 billion in cuts to Medicaid over the next decade.
While the final legislation avoids the most extreme proposals—like block grants and wide-scale federal rate reductions—it still poses serious threats to the disability services system and healthcare access across Iowa and the nation. Even with last-minute changes, these cuts are expected to create the following challenges:
- Reduced provider rates and fewer essential services as states are forced to absorb more costs
- Increased waitlists for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) and greater risk of institutionalization
- Loss of daily supports and independence for individuals with I/DD
- Worsening of the direct support workforce crisis, already stretched thin
Medicaid Is a Lifeline for Over 800,000 Iowans
Medicaid isn’t just for individuals with disabilities. It provides critical support for:
- Children and families
- Older adults(Medicaid supports more than 50% of Iowa nursing home residents)
- People with complex health needs, including behavioral and mental health care
From hospital visits to hospice, family planning, mental health, and in-home care—Medicaid helps Iowans live safer, healthier lives.
What's Next: Staying Strong Together
Although the bill has passed, most provisions will phase in gradually, and many will require further rulemaking and implementation. That means our advocacy work is far from over—and your engagement is still essential. Here's how you can stay involved:
EPI will remain a strong voice for inclusive services, access to care, and community support—and we will continue that work with the same resilience and commitment we’ve always had.
We will monitor the most important advocacy priorities and share with you as any new details emerge. While we know there will be challenges ahead, our commitment to the people we support—and to each of you—remains as strong as ever. Together, we’ll continue moving forward with purpose and resilience.
Resources for All:
I/DD Specific Resources:
- Advocacy Toolkit and the Medicaid Resource Center from our national trade association, the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR), provides essential guidance on advocating for I/DD
- Policy Priorities Learn more about the latest policy priorities we support from our state trade association Iowa Association of Community Providers (IACP)
- Iowa APSE - Visit the Iowa Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE) to explore efforts focused on advancing inclusive employment opportunities
Child Care Specific Resources: