The disability community is facing serious threats from the federal government. From devastating Medicaid cuts to the dismantling of long-standing support systems, immigration actions, cuts to research grants, and more, there is deep fear, uncertainty, and anxiety among our community.
The Arc of Massachusetts, which represents and advocates for over 250,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism, and their families, is deeply concerned about this administration’s actions and policies. It is important to note that disability status intersects with every other identity and all proposed cuts and changes will disproportionately impact disabled people from other marginalized communities.
These cuts and resulting fear became even more tangible on July 4, 2025, when the President signed into law legislation that will cut $1 trillion from Medicaid over the next 10 years. This will lead to reductions in access to health insurance and other long-term supports and services.
The Arc of Massachusetts is on high alert. Our team is listening to the community, analyzing federal cuts and proposals in real-time, advocating directly to our congressional delegation and our state leaders, and sharing fact-based resources. Several months ago, The Arc launched the Disability Impact Tracker: Community Check-In Survey where our community could share how federal changes are impacting their lives. So far, 700 people have responded. Below is a summary of the impact of the current and proposed federal cuts on our community. We are sharing several comments that demonstrate the deep concerns around cuts to services or loss of eligibility. Small edits to responses were made for clarity.
Note: The survey responses are based on possible loss or cuts to services as well as ripple effects of dismantling agencies and disability systems nationally.
