C.A. v. Garcia, United States District Court for the Southern District of Iowa

Executive Summary

Plaintiffs are Medicaid-eligible children with a serious emotional disturbance who need intensive home and community-based services to treat or ameliorate their mental and behavioral health conditions. This class action arises from the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services’ longstanding failure to provide the Plaintiff children with these legally-required and medically necessary services. For years, Iowa officials have publicly acknowledged the inadequacy of the State’s mental health system for children. Yet, despite repeated calls to address these concerns, necessary services remain unavailable. Plaintiffs bring this action on behalf of themselves and all similarly-situated children against Defendant Kelly Garcia, in her official capacity as Director of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services.