On August 18, 2026, Senator Ben Ray Luján met to discuss feedback he received from caregivers regarding significant challenges in accessing Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). Caregivers reported a range of barriers, including a general lack of available services, limited transportation options, insufficient wifi/broadband access for telehealth or remote coordination, difficulty reaching specialty doctors, and low pay for caregivers themselves. Complications arising from overlapping state and tribal jurisdiction were also identified as a major obstacle, particularly for caregivers serving Native American communities who often must navigate inconsistent policies and service gaps between tribal and state systems.

In response to these concerns, Senator Luján indicated his intent to introduce legislation - HCBS Access Act aimed at simplifying and streamlining Home Community-Based Services. This initiative reflects a broader effort to reduce systemic barriers that disproportionately affect caregivers in underserved and tribal communities, and represents an opportunity for continued advocacy and input from organizations supporting Native American disability services.If you missed an opportunity to share your story you can reach:

Brian Lee
Sr. Field Representative | Office of U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (N.M.)
Post Office Box 711, Farmington, New Mexico 87499

C: (505) 554-4330