Maryland disability care policies hinder user independence

Maryland's self-directed disability services have faced significant changes since January 2024, making it harder for participants to access funding and hire preferred staff. The number of users has increased, but new policies have restricted choices and created challenges. Previously, participants could easily manage their care and budgets. Now, rules prevent hiring relatives as staff, and many have reported denied funding for approved services. Advocates claim these changes have diminished independence and increased frustration among users. Participants and their families have protested these policy changes, citing difficulties in accessing necessary services. The state is also proposing budget cuts to disability care services for the upcoming fiscal year.