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September
2005

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• MO Medicaid Cuts Feeding Tubes, Vents -- Activists File Suit

ST. LOUIS, SEPT, 2005 --In a decision that threatens the lives of over 300,000 disabled Missourians, the state's Medicaid program set Sept. 1 as the date when it stops paying for ventilators, canes, crutches and walkers; "for cushions to prevent life-threatening bed sores," for wheelchair batteries.

These things are technically known as 'optional' equipment and services under current Medicaid rules," said the St. Louis Post-Dispatch in an editorial. "Gov. Matt Blunt and Republican lawmakers cut them during the past legislative session, denying equipment to about 340,000 adults covered by Medicaid." MORE.

A group of activists has sued the Missouri Dept. of Social Services, saying the cuts violate federal laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act. READ STORY FROM KSDK TV. | FOLLOW THIS ISSUE AT Missouri Advocates for Independent Living website.

Readers may recall that Gov. Blunt spoke at ADA celebration in July, and activists demonstrated there, too. READ THAT STORY.