HHS Restructuring and the Future of Independent Living Programs
Dear Independent Living Community:
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a major restructuring that will shift programs from the Administration for Community Living (ACL) to other agencies, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Administration for Children and Families (ACF).
At this moment, there is no clear information on how this will impact Centers for Independent Living (CILs) and Statewide Independent Living Councils (SILCs). This uncertainty is concerning, but we want to assure you that the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL), the Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL), and the National Association of Statewide Independent Living Councils (NASILC) are fully engaged in solidarity and will do everything in our power to protect and strengthen Independent Living programs.
We know that CILs and SILCs are the backbone of independence for people with disabilities across the country. Any disruption to these services could have serious consequences, and we will not allow them to be sidelined. We are actively monitoring this situation, advocating for clarity, and demanding that Independent Living remains a top priority.
Now is the time for us to stay informed, united, and stand ready to take action. We will share updates as soon as we learn more. If you hear of any changes affecting CILs or SILCs in your state, please reach out immediately to Jessica@ncil.org.
Independent Living is too important to be left in uncertainty. Together, we will make sure it remains strong.
