Defending Maryland’s Self-Direction Services

Maryland’s Self-Direction program provides life-changing support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). However, recent policy changes and budget cuts threaten the safety, independence, and well-being of more than 2,000 participants in the SDS program and nearly 20,000 Marylanders with disabilities.

Get Involved

Legislators have the power to protect the rights, dignity, and safety of Maryland’s most vulnerable citizens. Act now to stop these harmful cuts before they take effect. 

We Call Upon Legislators To:

• Fully implement the Maryland Self-Direction Act of 2022
• Restore policies to pre-November 21, 2024 standards
• Prevent substantial budget reductions that would jeopardize the safety and health of individuals with disabilities.
• Convene an independent task force to assess failures and restore program integrity

Our Mission

We advocate fiercely for self-direction participants and their essential support networks—Direct Support Professionals, nurses, vendors, and families—to ensure their voices shape Maryland’s policies and budgets. We demand transparency, accountability, and meaningful stakeholder input, defending the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities.

Our Vision

A Maryland where self-directed individuals and their support networks have full agency, equitable representation in policymaking, and the resources necessary to thrive—free from harmful budget cuts and restrictive policies.

The Human Cost

Stories of Impact

A single mother managing services for her son with autism, Linda risks losing overnight supports, leaving her family in crisis.

Linda

SDS Participant's Parent

My staff supports me and keeps me safe. Without them I would not be able to participate in the community activities I enjoy.

Tanika

SDS Participant

I've lost enough staff already, I don't want to lose more due to these budget cuts.

Michael

SDS Participant

David, who has cerebral palsy, relies on Self-Direction to hire a trusted caregiver. The budget cuts would reduce his ability to pay competitive wages, making it impossible to retain support.

David

SDS Participant

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