The Governor’s May Revision, released this week, includes a proposal to reduce authorized IHSS hours for certain recipients as part of a broader $14 billion effort to close the state budget gap.
Under the proposal, recipients whose assessed needs fall below a new threshold would see their monthly authorized hours reduced by an average of 7–12 hours. The California Department of Social Services estimates approximately 89,000 recipients could be affected.
What This Means for Providers
If your recipient’s hours are reduced, your billable hours drop — directly reducing your income. Hours reductions take effect 30 days after the recipient receives written notice.
Your Recipient’s Rights
Recipients have the right to:
- Request a fair hearing to appeal the reduction
- Continue receiving current hours while the appeal is pending
- Have a representative (including you, as the provider) assist them in the appeal
To request a fair hearing: Call 1-800-952-5253 or visit cdss.ca.gov/fair-hearing.
What Advocates Are Doing
SEIU 2015 and disability rights organizations have announced they will oppose the cuts in budget negotiations. The Legislature must approve the final budget by June 15.