State council outlines 2023 issues
January, 2023
By Jane McClure
The Minnesota Council on Disability (MCD) has outlined its 2023 legislative priorities, including affordable housing, reforms for working people with disabilities and addressing the direct care crisis. The annual legislative forum, held virtually, allowed council members, staff, and self-advocates to present the agenda to over 30 state lawmakers, with a recording to be posted in January.
The 2023 focus includes increasing disability representation in state government, supporting the Rare Disease Advisory Council's ongoing funding, and seeking a budget increase for MCD. The second pillar aims to improve the lives of Minnesotans with disabilities, addressing PCA pay, home care worker shortages, accessible housing, and insurance access for rare diseases.
A key reform sought is amending the Minnesota Human Rights Act to include "episodic disabilities." The third pillar involves supporting disability partners in various initiatives, such as inclusive education, state parks' accessibility, hearing aid affordability, and assistance for disabled-owned businesses. The focus includes seeking additional resources given the state's budget surplus.
