On October 7, 2025, from 10 a.m. to noon (CT), North Dakota’s Health and Human Services (HHS) will host a U.S. DOJ Settlement Agreement Stakeholder Meeting in Bismarck (or virtually) to share updates on home- and community-based services for people with physical disabilities.
This meeting stems from a 2020 settlement agreement between North Dakota and the U.S. Department of Justice, aimed at ensuring that individuals with physical disabilities can receive services in the most integrated setting appropriate—that is, in community or in-home care rather than institutional settings.
Under the agreement, the state must periodically report to the DOJ, host stakeholder meetings, and develop or improve programs such as home modification funds, peer support, and transition/diversion services (to prevent or delay nursing home placements).
The agenda for this October meeting includes:
• DOJ semiannual report and compliance updates
• Home and community-based services (HCBS) updates
• Qualified Service Provider (QSP) quality and compliance workshops
• Transition and Diversion Program updates
• Home modification funds, rental assistance, peer support, and a “listening session” for public input
Participation is offered in person (at HHS Prairie Hills Plaza, 1237 W. Divide Ave., Suite 6, Bismarck) or virtually via phone or device.
For residents of Bismarck, Mandan, and surrounding rural communities, this is a rare chance to directly weigh in on how home support services are delivered in the region. Issues like funding for home modifications, access to personal care, and support for people wanting to stay in their homes instead of moving to care facilities matter deeply to families in Central North Dakota.
Local service providers and agencies in Bismarck may also be impacted by any changes in policy or program direction—especially those serving the disabled and elderly populations. The state’s ability to meet DOJ requirements could affect future funding, compliance obligations, and the risk of federal oversight.
“We want to hear from people who rely on in-home supports—what works, what doesn’t.”
—HHS spokesperson (via press release)
What You Can Do
Attend (in person or virtually) — Mark your calendar: Oct. 7, 10 a.m.–noon CT. Doors open via Door No. 2 at Prairie Hills Plaza.
Health and Human Services North Dakota
Submit your feedback — During the listening session, speak up about needed improvements (e.g. home modifications, peer support, service delivery)
Stay informed & engaged — Watch for follow-up reports and enforcement actions if compliance lags
This meeting offers North Dakotans in the Bismarck area a direct line to influence how disability and home support services function in their communities—don’t miss your chance to be heard.
