A number of changes are planned for the Community Pathways Medicaid waiver program for the 2027 fiscal year.
These changes are required by the State’s 2027 budget or to comply with federal guidelines. Even more important, these changes are needed to ensure DDA can continue delivering the essential services thousands of Marylanders with intellectual and developmental disabilities depend upon to live in the community – and to provide services to more people.
Some of these changes take effect on July 1, 2026. Others take effect on September 1, 2026.
Some of these changes require approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, through the formal waiver amendment process. The first step in that process is collecting public input for 30 days. That comment period opened April 29, 2026 and will remain open through May 28,2026. Our
2026 Community Pathways Medicaid Waiver Amendment, has more information, including:
- Waiver amendment documents
- Plain language summaries and Spanish materials
- Instructions for submitting public comments
Learn More
This plain-language overview provides the basics of what is changing. We also are hosting a series of webinars to walk through the changes and the proposed amendment. Please register at the links below.
Upcoming Webinars
Overview of All Upcoming Changes
We will walk through the changes, including when they will take effect, and show you where to find more information on our website. You’ll also have an opportunity to ask questions.
Monday May 4, 2026
Monday May 11, 2026
Proposed Waiver Amendment
We will walk you through the amendment proposal, the materials posted on our website and how you can provide feedback. You’ll have an opportunity to share brief comments or ask questions.
Tuesday May 5, 2026
Tuesday May 12, 2026Self-Directed Services Webinars
Changes to Reasonable And Customary Standards and Wage Exception Process
We will walk through changes to reasonable and customary standards and the wage exception process. We are seeking your input on updates to the Self-Directed Services Manual for the changes to reasonable and customary standards and the wage exception process and ways to support participants.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Reasonable and Customary Rates and Wages
We will walk through the new reasonable and customary rate and wage standards and the Financial Management and Counseling Services wages and rates change process. You'll also have an opportunity to ask questions.
Monday, May 11, 2026
