Children and families saw gains at the Capitol in 2024, but much work remains

July 2024
By Access Press Staff

The 2024 Minnesota legislative session brought several gains for children and families living with disabilities, though advocates are already looking ahead to the 2025 session. Family Voices and other organizations held a June 24 virtual update to highlight progress and discuss ongoing priorities. Key successes included the first-ever inclusion of the term "ableism" in state law, promoting disability justice training for educators, and reforms to the Personal Care Attendant program as it transitions to Community First Systems and Supports (CFSS), with reimbursement for family caregivers beginning in October 2024.

Other improvements focused on streamlining disability services. MnCHOICES assessments will be valid for a year starting in 2025, reducing delays in accessing services. Changes were made to the Consumer-Directed Community Supports program, and DHS will review implementation challenges with electronic visit verification for family caregivers. A statewide survey on disability service access is planned, with results due in January 2026.

Health-related advances included reforms to prior medical authorizations, full funding for the Rare Disease Council, and mandatory coverage for secondary orthotic and prosthetic devices starting in 2025. Payments to direct support professionals during hospital stays will also be allowed, pending federal approval.

Education-focused changes included updates to the READ Act, paid training for paraprofessionals, coverage of school social worker services under Medical Assistance, and programs to strengthen the teacher pipeline, including scholarships and apprenticeships for teachers of color and special education teacher programs.

Revisions to prone restraint laws clarified that school staff, but not law enforcement, are prohibited from using such measures.

Overall, while 2024's session made meaningful improvements, advocates emphasized the need to continue groundwork and identify priorities for 2025, particularly in staffing, waiver system reforms, and ongoing support for families navigating complex services.

Children and families saw gains at the Capitol in 2024, but much work remains | Access Press