What is HCBS?

Everyone benefits when people with disabilities are a part of the fabric of our communities, not locked away in the archaic institutions. Institutions are large, often crowded places that limit people and their choices and force them to live segregated lives away from their family and friends without access to the supports needed to live in their own homes and communities.  

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are provided many services because of the Lanterman Act. Many services people receive are paid for with state and federal money from the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Therefore, California must comply with what is called the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Final Rule. This rule sets requirements for HCBS settings, which are places where people live or receive services. Each state has until March 2023 to help providers comply with the HCBS Final Rule