Disability and Aging MAPS program renewal approved; committee limits additional funding in-motion

The Fiscal Review Committee approved an amendment renewing the Department of Disability and Aging’s contract with AbleLink Smart Living Technologies for the Medicaid Alternative Pathways to Independence (MAPS) program, but the committee motion limited immediate new appropriations and instructed the department to use available budget resources.

Trey Jones, legislative director for the department, described MAPS as a program that helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities learn skills for greater independence. Jordan Allen, deputy commissioner for program operations, told the committee that the program has nearly 600 participants and that the department anticipates enrollment growth. The MAPS model uses technology and coaching for transition-age youth and carries a stated potential lifetime savings estimate presented by the department.

Senator Gardenhire offered a motion to approve the extension while not approving additional money beyond the budget the department already holds; the department accepted that motion. Committee members asked about scaling and anticipated duration of participation; the department said participation typically lasts three years and that staff expected to exhaust enrollment slots over the program term and to seek additional funding later if the program demonstrates success.

Ending: The committee approved the contract renewal with the funding condition in place; the department said it will track enrollment and return for additional funding if necessary.