Closures, sanctions cause worry for Bridges, a St. Paul-based service provider

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) announced the revocation of the license of St. Paul-based Bridges, MN, citing "serious and repeated" health and safety violations and maltreatment of residents.

Bridges MN, with over 90 facilities and 500 clients statewide, appealed the revocation, potentially leading to a lengthy process involving state officials and an administrative law judge. Direct care staff shortages, low wages, and reimbursement challenges contribute to the crisis, impacting disabled individuals and prompting group home closures.

The DHS sanctions against Bridges MN involve a rare move due to repeated violations, substantiated maltreatment findings, and non-compliance with state laws and rules, with allegations including physical abuse, neglect, and sexual relationships between staffers and vulnerable adults.

Despite the appeal, concerns persist about the impact on residents and the broader issue of staffing challenges in the state's group homes.