Comments on Missouri Section 1115 Request for Federal Funding for Institutions for Mental Disease (IMDs) for Children and Adults

Executive Summary

In these comments, NHeLP urges HHS to reject Missouri’s request for federal financial participation for institutions for mental disease, as increasing federal funding for institutional care risks serious harm, particularly for children. NHeLP objects to the use of Section 1115 for this purpose, and to the request to eliminate time limits on length of stay for children for up to two years.