Helpful information in the event of a government shutdown.
The following has been provided by ANCOR, a Leading Voice in Washington for Community Providers:
We are continuing to monitor the situation to see if Congress can reach a deal to avert a government shutdown, which would begin on October 1. In preparation for a potential shutdown, we would like to share with you an updated resource from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS): the FY 2026 HHS Contingency Staffing Plan for Operations in the Absence of Enacted Annual Appropriations.
This contingency staffing plan contains critical information on how HHS programs will operate in the event of a shutdown, including specific details for each HHS operating division. Key points are highlighted below; please refer to the full contingency staffing plan for more details.
- CMS will have sufficient funding for Medicaid to fund the first quarter of FY 2026, based on the advance appropriation provided for in the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025.
- In the event of a lapse of appropriation, 3,311 (53%) of CMS staff will be retained, including 3,105 (50%) who are exempt (their activities or position are already funded or otherwise exempt) and 206 (3%) who are excepted staff (their activities are deemed necessary by implication).
- The Administration for Community Living (ACL) will continue activities funded through carryover funding from the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA). Staff will continue to perform reimbursable work related to managed care consumer information and assistance. ACL will also continue activities funded through the Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control (HCFAC) wedge. ACL staff will continue to promote community living for people with disabilities of all ages, as well as for older adults.
- In the event of a lapse of appropriations, 22 (18%) of ACL staff will be retained, including 12 (10%) who are exempt (their activities or position are already funded or otherwise exempt) and 10 (8%) who are excepted (their activities are deemed necessary by implication, or for the safety of human life or protection of property).
- Overall, HHS' contingency plans for agency operations in the absence of appropriations will lead to retaining approximately 47,257 staff and furloughing 32,460 staff.
- CMS Plan: www.hhs.gov/about/budget/...
ACL Plan: www.hhs.gov/about/budget/...
We will continue to provide updates as they become available.
Connecting Individuals with Disabilities to their Communities
Individuals with disabilities and their families work with Community Bridges to manage their unique challenges, maneuver the obstacles, and thrive in their communities.
For over 35 years, Community Bridges has provided the tools and support to individuals with disabilities so they become welcomed and active contributors to our community, making it a better place for everyone!
Our individual approach is focused on creating the best life possible for every individual we serve. From early childhood through all phases of life, people experiencing developmental disabilities or injuries have an advocate and caring partner to help them utilize their skills and talents to live a productive and rewarding life that they choose for themselves.
Person Centered Thinking
Person-centered thinking is a set of values, skills, and tools used in the planning and personalization of services used by people who need supports offered by Community Bridges. Even more than that, it is a philosophy that helps to enable positive control and self-direction of people’s lives.
Community Bridges implements person-centered thinking through training sessions offered to and required of all employees. Teaching and supporting the use of person-centered thinking skills assures that service plans will be used and acted on, that updating service plans will occur “naturally,” and that the person’s ability to lead a fulfilling, independent life is fully supported. Person-centered thinking harmonizes with our mission and provides a framework for our services that support individuals and families in their communities.
Community Bridges is committed to providing equal services and does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, pregnancy, religion, disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally protected status. If you believe that a representative of Community Bridges has discriminated against you while acting in their official capacity, you have the right to file a complaint by contacting the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Ombudsman at Ombudsman@dhhs.nh.gov or by calling (603) 271-6941, or toll-free (800) 852-3345.
Stay up-to-date on news and events happening at Community Bridges and in your community.
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In Our Community
Your Voice Matters!
Earlier this year, your feedback helped stop proposed cuts to the Developmental Services budget. Thank you!
CSNI is asking for your help again. Families and adults receiving DD/ABD waiver services are invited to share their experiences with Direct Support Professional (DSP) staffing.
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The survey is anonymous
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Takes just a few minutes
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Closes Friday, Oct. 17 at midnight
Take the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/73Q9K8R
Every response makes our voice stronger in the upcoming legislative session. Please share widely so we hear from as many families as possible.
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September 2025 NH for All
This issue emphasizes the challenges that many individuals with disabilities encounter when trying to access transportation in New Hampshire.
Additional topics covered include improving healthcare quality, fostering collaborative and inclusive art programs, and providing adaptive kitchen tools.
They have also updated the annual resource guide!
Feel free to share this information! If you would like a printed copy of our magazine, please contact Vanessa A. Blais at Vanessa.A.Blais@ddc.nh.gov.
The Contact Notification System is linked to the person, enabling all law enforcement across the state access to necessary information when there is a police contact.
911 Cares still exists for medical / fire / EMS services, and the Contact Notification System supports police databases.