Update: The previously scheduled opportunities for public comment on the 1115 proposal will be postponed due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. We will provide information about the rescheduled dates as soon as possible. The written comment period is currently open and will be extended to a time period after the public comment events occur.

Pursuant to 42 C.F.R. § 431.408, the Alabama Medicaid Agency (Medicaid) is required to give public notice of its intent to submit a Section 1115 Demonstration proposal and an application for a new 1915(c) waiver (collectively “Demonstration”), which will operate concurrently, to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Medicaid is seeking this Demonstration to create a new program called the “Community Waiver” program and will enable the State to provide home and community-based services (HCBS) to individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) not currently enrolled in a waiver program.

The Community Waiver program will enable the State to serve individuals with ID in HCBS rather than in institutions, and best ensure the State is operating Medicaid-funded long-term services and supports (LTSS) for people with ID. Additionally, the Community Waiver program will fully comport with standards applicable to person-centered planning under Section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act including conflict-free case management.

As required by federal regulation, Medicaid is now opening a formal thirty (30) day comment period. A copy of the draft Demonstration proposal is available upon request for public review at each county office of the Department of Human Resources, the State Office of the Department of Mental Health, and the State Office of the Alabama Medicaid Agency. A copy of the draft Demonstration proposal, the full public notice, locations (with addresses) to view documents, and additional information can be found on Medicaid’s website: https://medicaid.alabama.gov/content/6.0_LTC_Waivers/6.1_HCBS_Waivers/6.1.9_Community_Waiver_Program.aspx.

Comments can be emailed to the following e-mail address:  PublicComment@medicaid.alabama.gov or mailed hardcopy to:

Administrative Secretary

Alabama Medicaid Agency

501 Dexter Avenue

P.O. Box 5624

Montgomery, Alabama 36103-5624

All written comments will be available for review by the public during normal business hours at the above address. Please note that some offices may have restricted access or modified hours for visitors because of the national health emergency.