The Robert G. (Bob) Bethell Joint Committee on Home and Community Based Services and KanCare Oversight plays a critical role in shaping how Kansans with disabilities access care, services, and support through KanCare. As the state’s Medicaid program, KanCare impacts thousands of individuals and families who rely on home and community-based services (HCBS) to live independently and with dignity. One of the most important ways individuals, providers, and organizations can influence policy decisions is through testimony at committee hearings, particularly the upcoming session on May 6 at 8:30 a.m. The agenda for the committee meeting can be found at kslegislature.gov.
Why Testimony Matters
Testimony provides a direct line to policymakers. It transforms data into lived experience and helps legislators understand how policies affect real people. For programs like the Brain Injury Waiver, which supports individuals recovering from brain injuries, these personal perspectives are especially powerful. They highlight both the successes of the program and the areas where improvements are urgently needed.
The upcoming committee hearing is an opportunity to thank legislators for recent investments while also advocating for thoughtful, sustainable changes. Notably, stakeholders are encouraged to acknowledge the state’s funding efforts aimed at preventing a waiting list for the Brain Injury Waiver. This investment has made a tangible difference, allowing individuals to access services when they need them rather than facing uncertain delays.
Key Logistics for Submitting Testimony
If you plan to participate, it’s important to follow the submission guidelines carefully. Individuals wishing to testify, whether in person, virtually, or through written-only testimony, must submit a PDF copy of their written testimony via email to Elizabeth Cohn at Elizabeth.Cohn@klrd.ks.gov by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026.
Additionally, five paper copies must be delivered to Room 68-West of the Statehouse by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026. Be sure to clearly label your testimony at the top left corner as “in-person” or “virtual” if you intend to present live. If this designation is missing, your testimony will automatically be categorized as written-only and included on the revised agenda as such. If you need assistance getting your testimony submitted via email or in person, please contact Minds Matter, LLC and we will be happy to assist!
While these steps may seem procedural, they ensure that testimony is organized, accessible, and properly attributed—maximizing its impact during the hearing process.
Suggested Talking Points
When preparing testimony, it’s helpful to strike a balance between gratitude, concern, and personal storytelling.
1. Express Appreciation for Funding Support
Begin by thanking the committee for allocating funds to prevent a waiting list for the Brain Injury Waiver. This acknowledgment reinforces the importance of continued investment and demonstrates collaboration between stakeholders and policymakers.
2. Address Concerns About “Money Follows the Person”
While funding has improved access in some areas, there is growing disappointment that “Money Follows the Person” initiatives will not be moving forward as anticipated. This program is widely recognized for helping individuals transition from institutional settings back into their communities. Highlighting this concern underscores the need for policies that prioritize independence and community integration.
3. Share Personal Stories
Personal narratives are often the most compelling part of testimony. Whether you are an individual receiving services, a family member, or a provider, your experience can illustrate the real-world impact of the Brain Injury Waiver. Consider sharing how services have improved quality of life, increased independence, or supported recovery. These stories help legislators connect emotionally and understand the human side of policy decisions.
4. Advocate for Rate Parity Across Waivers
Another critical issue is the disparity in reimbursement rates for direct care workers across different HCBS waivers. Currently, the Brain Injury Waiver has the lowest attendant care rates among all waivers. This creates challenges in recruiting and retaining qualified caregivers, which directly affects the quality and consistency of care. Advocating for rate parity is not just about fairness—it’s about ensuring that individuals receiving services have access to stable, high-quality support.
The Bigger Picture
The work of the committee extends beyond individual programs; it shapes the broader landscape of long-term care in Kansas. Policies discussed during these hearings influence workforce stability, service availability, and the overall quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
By participating in the testimony process, stakeholders contribute to a more informed and responsive system. Whether highlighting successes or identifying gaps, each voice adds depth to the conversation and helps guide future decisions.
Final Thoughts
The May 6 hearing is more than a procedural event, it’s an opportunity to advocate, educate, and collaborate. Thoughtful testimony that combines appreciation, constructive feedback, and personal experience can have a lasting impact on policy outcomes.
For individuals, providers, and organizations invested in the success of KanCare and HCBS programs, this is a moment to be heard. Taking the time to prepare and submit testimony not only supports your own priorities but also strengthens the collective voice of the community.
To view Minds Matter, LLC Founder and CEO, Janet Williams’, testimony from January, click the link HERE.
