(Source: Minnesota DHS) 

The Minnesota department of Human Services (DHS) continues to work to launch Community First Services and Supports (CFSS), but exactly when that will happen isn’t known. The flexible healthcare program will replace Minnesota’s personal care assistance (PCA) and the Consumer Support Grant (CSG). 

It was announced recently that DHS will not launch CFSS before April 1, 2023. DHS anticipates the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will need additional time to approve the CFSS state plan amendments after DHS made changes that CMS requested. 

DHS has emphasized that delays in implementing CFSS won’t affect anyone’s ability to continue receiving services, or to access assessments needed to start services. But there are worries that the delays could affect long-sought assistance such as a 2021 state law change that provides flexibility for people with disabilities who need to be driven to destinations by a personal care attendant. 

The process of review and approval between DHS and CMS has been slowed by the COVID-19 pandemic. A town hall meeting on the transition and delays was held almost a year ago. 

State plan amendments were submitted to the CMS in March, providing time for CMS to review the amendments, request changes and approve the plans. After receiving questions DHS submitted additional information over the summer. Additional questions were sent to DHS in September,. 

DHS cannot provide a specific launch date for CFSS until CMS approves, but will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.