Proposed Medicaid Cuts in Indiana Could Limit Access to Recreational Therapy for Disabled Residents

July 12, 2025

INDIANAPOLIS — Advocates for people with disabilities are raising alarms over a proposed policy change from Indiana’s Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) that would limit Medicaid-funded recreational therapy to just six hours per month. Critics say the cap could significantly impact the quality of life for thousands of Hoosiers who rely on these services to maintain independence and well-being.

The proposal is part of a broader set of amendments to Indiana’s Community Integration and Habilitation (CIH) Medicaid waiver, which provides services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. According to a fact sheet released by FSSA on July 7, the state wants to impose the six-hour monthly cap on both recreational therapy and music therapy, citing a goal of increasing access by redistributing limited resources.

Tyler Neimeyer, a certified recreational therapist based in Indiana, says the change would be devastating for many of his clients.

“My clients and thousands of others throughout Indiana depend on recreational therapy to support their mental, physical, and social health through research-based therapies involving play, community outings, and social engagement.  Recreational therapists impart essential skills to help clients navigate in their communities and social circles, said Neimeyer.

Neimeyer and other advocates are organizing a campaign to oppose the proposed cap, including two upcoming town hall events in Indianapolis and Fishers where individuals receiving waiver services will share personal testimony.

One of those individuals is Mariah, an Indianapolis woman with Down syndrome who currently receives more than six hours of recreational therapy each month. Another is Matthew, who has an intellectual disability that affects his memory.

The proposed waiver amendment is open for public comment from July 9 through August 8, 2025. If approved, the change would go into effect in December. The FSSA says the proposed limits are intended to ensure that “the benefits of these services are accessible to more people on the waiver.”

Public town hall meetings are scheduled for:

• Tuesday, July 23, 4:30–6:30 p.m. at Friedens United Church of Christ, 8300 S Meridian St, Indianapolis
• Wednesday, July 24, 6:00–7:30 p.m. at Hamilton East Public Library, 5 Municipal Dr, Fishers

Advocates have launched a campaign website at www.myvoicemyrt.com and are urging affected families and care providers to submit comments and contact lawmakers.

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