On April 4, CMS published a proposed rule providing guidance to states on implementation of a Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 (DRA) provision expanding state flexibility to provide Medicaid HCBS without applying for a demonstration waiver. Since the DRA made the HCBS option available beginning in 2007, CMS also has provided technical assistance to a number of states that wanted to proceed prior to the rulemaking. CMS is accepting comments on the rule through June 3, 2008. For more information, click here.