Georgia Budget Debate Highlights NOW/COMP Waivers

Families and advocates are asking Georgia lawmakers to add more state funding for Medicaid-funded IDD waivers, citing 1,217 people described as “urgently in need” of services through the NOW and COMP programs, according to GPB. The discussion focuses on how waiver capacity and funding levels affect access to supports for Georgians with disabilities, as state budget planning continues.

What NOW and COMP Waivers Cover

GPB describes NOW and COMP as waivers that help pay for supports in homes or community settings. The waivers are administered by Georgia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. Advocates and families told lawmakers that additional funding is needed to expand access to these services for people who are currently waiting.

Testimony From Families

The GPB report includes testimony from a parent, Earlice Acey, who said a waiver would help her daughter access opportunities. “She deserves to have these opportunities,” Acey said. The testimony was presented as part of the broader push from families and advocates urging state leaders to increase funding for Medicaid-funded IDD waiver services.

Funding History and the Current Waitlist

GPB notes that FY2025 funding added permanent waiver slots and included a major investment tied to provider rate increases. Even with those changes, advocates argue unmet need remains large. GPB reports that more than 7,000 people are on the waitlist. The outlet also reports that the draft FY2027 budget funds substantially fewer new slots than requested.