Research conducted by MarketResponse International
For the Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities (Project 2541; April 2025)
According to the Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD) current Five-Year Plan for FFYs 2022-2026, the following Goal Statement applies to Customer Research:
Conduct or commission research studies to measure and assess quality outcomes of the federal DD Act through annual qualitative and quantitative surveys on new topics and issues or further research on topics and issues previously studied.
As done every 5 years since the year 2000, in 2025 the State needed to conduct a Quality-of-Life Assessment Survey (QOLAS) to determine the degree to which people with developmental disabilities in Minnesota believe they are independent, productive, integrated and included in the community, and have self-determination (IPSII).
1. Meta Analysis Report Update. A Meta Analysis and summary report of prior IPSII studies completed in 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020 was completed prior to conducting the 2025 study. The Meta study report served as a resource to identify gaps, refine focus areas, and lay the groundwork for the upcoming 2025 Five-Year Plan research.
2. Qualitative Research among advocates, self-advocates and other subject matter experts. In-depth interviews (IDIs) (total n=24): 60-minute interviews conducted among Council Members (n=9), plus leaders of various advocacy non-profit organizations and other subject matter experts. Additional focus groups and interviews with self-advocates were also conducted. This qualitative research uncovered relevant and timely insights to help inform the new Five-Year Plan. Throughout this report, italicized text represents direct quotations from these stake-holders and subject matter experts.
3. A quantitative survey was administered online and in-person, sometimes with paper copies, to self-advocates and family member advocates of people with developmental disabilities. The survey instrument included comprehensive measures of independence, productivity, self-determination, integration and inclusion (IPSII), which have been asked in the same way since the year 2000. The 2025 wave of this longitudinal tracking study was conducted January-April, 2025.
4. Insights on Intersectionality: Questions were added to the survey, and outreach efforts were made, to gain insights into the impacts of the intersection of racial and ethnic communities, and developmental disabilities. (The series of Intersectionality Studies, initiated in 2022, were designed to gain insights into the life experiences and needs of people with developmental disabilities, who are identified as being members of other marginalized communities.)
Thank you to all the leaders of these businesses and advocacy organizations for participating in qualitative interviews, and helping to encourage participation in the study among advocates and self-advocates throughout their networks:
A total of 353 qualified respondents started the 2025 Quality-of-Life Assessment Survey (QOLAS), though not all answered every question. Approximately 315 respondents completed the entire survey.
Respondents to QOLAS studies have always included self-advocates, as well as parents and other family members of persons with developmental disabilities. The parent advocates were instructed to assist or answer the survey questions on behalf of their family members, as follows:
Answers to the questions throughout this survey should be provided by the person with a developmental disability to the extent they are able. Please assist as needed or complete this survey on their behalf.
2025 n=353
2025 Parent Advocates = 41%
2025 Self-Advocates = 59%
2020 n=191
2020 Parent Advocates = 79%
2020 Self-Advocates = 21%
There was a much higher proportion of Self-Advocates in the 2025 sample, as compared to 2020 and previous years' QOLAS studies. The differences between these two respondent groups (as shown on the next two slides) should be kept in mind throughout the analysis of the survey results.
SAMPLE PROFILE 2025 - Gender and Age
There was a higher proportion of males among the children of parent advocates, as compared to the self-advocates sample of respondents. As expected, Self-Advocates are generally older than those who had a parent or other family member respond to the survey on their behalf.
Children of Parent Advocates n=136
Male = 59%
Female = 38%
Other, No answer = 3%
Self-Advocates n=203
Male = 49%
Female = 48%
Other, No answer = 3%
Child, 12 years old or younger = 15%
Teenager 13-17
Children of Parent Advocates = 18%
Self Advocates = 1%
18-24
Children of Parent Advocates = 18%
Self Advocates = 9%
25-34
Children of Parent Advocates = 28%
Self Advocates = 23%
35-44
Children of Parent Advocates = 15%
Self Advocates = 26%
45-54
Children of Parent Advocates = 2%
Self Advocates = 16%
55-64
Children of Parent Advocates = 2%
Self Advocates = 15%
65-74
Children of Parent Advocates = 1%
Self Advocates = 8%
75 years or older
Children of Parent Advocates = 1%
Self Advocates = 2%
Race, Ethnicity n=300
Three-out-of-four respondents were White, Caucasian n=225. The remaining 25% (n=75) make up the BIPOC total, which stands for Black, Indigenous, People of Color.
White = 225 = 75%
Note: The BIPOC grouping includes several racial and ethnic communities, though Black, African Americans have the most dominant share.
Of the 75 that answered:
Black,African American, born in the US = 25%
Black,Immigrant, born outside the US = 15%
Hispanic, Latino = 9%
American Indian, Alaskan Native = 17%
Southeast Asian, Hmong = 1%
Other Asian, Pacific Islander = 3%
Other, Non-white =29%
Quote: There is tremendous power, momentum, and unity within the disability community right now.
Source: Advocacy Non-Profit
Efforts to enhance awareness and treatment of people with developmental disabilities appears to be paying off:
Legislative progress, including higher service provider pay, disability waiver rate increases, expanded employment supports, and waiver reforms, has improved life for people with developmental disabilities
Quotes:
Quote: I am an optimist. I would say things have improved in multiple areas even though it may not always look that way. (Self-Advocate, Non-Profit Community Leader)
In spite of progress in some areas, big challenges persist for people with developmental disabilities.
Federal policy changes and funding cuts could have devastating effects on people with disabilities
Continue grass-roots efforts to increase awareness and positive perceptions of people with developmental disabilities among the general population.
Call for systemic change in transportation, a linchpin issue for disability equity. Some ideas offered:
Share ideas with advocates, government and others on ways to improve the lives of people with developmental disabilities in Minnesota.
Council members and other community leaders believe there have been significant improvements over the past 5 years related to social interaction, public awareness, and access to technology.
Quote: There is tremendous power, momentum, and unity within the disability community right now. Advocacy Non-Profit
Quote: I would say (people with developmental disabilities) are better off because there's more awareness due to what we and other organizations have done. There's more awareness about services, support, and resources available.
Learning From Each Other
Quote: There is more communication between the people with disabilities themselves, they are learning from each other. Chat rooms and new technology have been improved, compared to the past.
Disability Employer
Quote: I think educationally it is better than five years ago. I think there's been efforts to make parents and caregivers more aware of how IEPs work, and how education can be customized for their child.
Council Member
There is a general sense that overall awareness and treatment of people with developmental disabilities have improved in recent years:
Quote: It's gotten better for sure. (In educational settings) they're less likely to be the kids down the hall that no one talks about. Now, they're sitting right next to me in class It's a whole different deal.
Quote: There are a lot more colleges and universities that are recognizing the value of having a diverse population, including people with developmental disabilities, and creating opportunities for them to be as independent as possible through secondary or post-secondary education.
Council Member
Quote: We hosted the 1st annual Disability Pride Festival in July of 2023, with about 150 folks. The second annual Pride Festival last year had around 650.
Advocacy Non-Profit
Quote: We go to the houses of worship, community gatherings, and to the Somali media outlets to talk about autism itself and how it's affecting the community. We are educating the community because there is a lot of stigma.
BIPOC Community Advocacy Non-Profit
More widespread use of technology during the pandemic enabled new opportunities and access to education, employment, healthcare, and social interactions:
Quote: (Most people with developmental disabilities) now have cell phones or iPads, which would have been unheard of 10 years ago.
Advocacy Group Non-profit
Quote: Some of our programs and services have remained virtual because we've actually increased accessibility across the state. Anybody anywhere in the state now can jump on one of our social emotional support groups.
Telehealth Outreach
Quote: I think the whole move towards telehealth has made it more possible and easier for people to get some of their healthcare needs met. It has afforded opportunities for some services to be provided over tele-outreach services.
Council Member
* Survey Question: Think about all of the technology products and services that are currently available, including computers and mobile phones, Internet access, and so on. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the statement?
Eight out of ten respondents agreed strongly or somewhat that they have access to the technology options they need. (There were no differences between white and BIPOC respondents, or between those who live in the Twin Cities metro area and greater Minnesota residents.)
I have access to the technology options that I need. n=307
Strongly Agree = 51%
Somewhat Agree = 32%
Neither = 7%
Somewhat Disagree = 6%
Strongly Disagree = 5%
Perceptions of respondents' communities appear to have improved in 2025, compared to 2020 and 2015. (There were no differences between white and BIPOC respondents, or between those who live in the Twin Cities metro area and greater Minnesota residents.)
Community Needs:
All things considered; my community is a good place for people with developmental disabilities
2010 (n=221) 74%
2015 (n=531) 67% Indicates a statistically significant difference, down, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
2020 (n=191) 70% Indicates a statistically significant difference, down, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
2025 (n=325) 80% Indicates a statistically significant difference, up, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
My community is becoming a better place for individuals and developmental disabilities
2010 (n=221) 70%
2015 (n=531) 69%
2020 (n=191) 62% Indicates a statistically significant difference, down, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
2025 (n=325) 75% Indicates a statistically significant difference, up, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
Access to healthcare appears to have improved since 2015. (There were no differences between white and BIPOC respondents, or between those who live in the Twin Cities metro area and greater Minnesota residents.)
I feel comfortable where I live, it feels like home
2010 (n=221) 86% Indicates a statistically significant difference, down, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
2015 (n=531) 89%
2020 (n=191) 93% Indicates a statistically significant difference, up, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
2025 (n=325) 91% Indicates a statistically significant difference, up, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
I feel safe in the neighborhood where I live
2010 (n=221) 88% Indicates a statistically significant difference, down, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
2015 (n=531) 86% Indicates a statistically significant difference, down, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
2020 (n=191) 87% Indicates a statistically significant difference, down, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
2025 (n=325) 93% Indicates a statistically significant difference, up, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
I have access to the healthcare I need
2010 (n=221) 82% Indicates a statistically significant difference, down, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
2015 (n=531) 82% Indicates a statistically significant difference, down, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
2020 (n=191) 88%
2025 (n=325) 88% Indicates a statistically significant difference, up, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
I have enough money to live on
2010 (n=221) 41% Indicates a statistically significant difference, down, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
2015 (n=531) 50% Indicates a statistically significant difference, down, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
2020 (n=191) 60%
2025 (n=325) 65% Indicates a statistically significant difference, up, at the 95% confidence level between measures from previous years.
There is evidence of significant improvement in Integration, Inclusion, and Productivity in 2025, compared to past years.
Satisfaction with current levels of:
Independence
2000 (n=300) 64%
2005 (n=552) 60%
2010 (n=221) 55%
2015 (n=531) 53%
2020 (n=191) 73%
2025 (n=315) 72%
Productivity
2000 (n=300) 67%
2005 (n=552) 72%
2010 (n=221) 71%
2015 (n=531) 73%
2020 (n=191) 66%
2025 (n=315) 81%
Self-Determination
2000 (n=300) NA
2005 (n=552) 61%
2010 (n=221) 59%
2015 (n=531) 56%
2020 (n=191) 68%
2025 (n=315) 71%
Integration
2000 (n=300) 64%
2005 (n=552) 59%
2010 (n=221) 54%
2015 (n=531) 56%
2020 (n=191) 62%
2025 (n=315) 73%
Inclusion
2000 (n=300) 55%
2005 (n=552) 54%
2010 (n=221) 50%
2015 (n=531) 52%
2020 (n=191) 56%
2025 (n=315) 68%
There is evidence of significant improvement in Integration, Inclusion, and Productivity in 2025, compared to past years.
I am satisfied with my current level of:
Independence
2020 Agree Somewhat 39%
2020 Agree Strongly 34%
2020 Total Agree (n=191) 74%
2025 Agree Somewhat 32%
2025 Agree Strongly 41%
2025 Total Agree (n=319) 72%
Self-Determination
2020 Agree Somewhat 34%
2020 Agree Strongly 34%
2020 Total Agree (n=191) 68%
2025 Agree Somewhat 31%
2025 Agree Strongly 40%
2025 Total Agree (n=319) 71%
Integration
2020 Agree Somewhat 33%
2020 Agree Strongly 29%
2020 Total Agree (n=191) 62%
2025 Agree Somewhat 33%
2025 Agree Strongly 40%
2025 Total Agree (n=319) 73% There is a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level, between 2020 and 2025 elements of Integration.
Inclusion
2020 Agree Somewhat 31%
2020 Agree Strongly 25%
2020 Total Agree (n=191) 56%
2025 Agree Somewhat 32%
2025 Agree Strongly 36%
2025 Total Agree (n=319) 68% There is a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level, between 2020 and 2025 elements of Inclusion
Productivity
2020 Agree Somewhat 28%
2020 Agree Strongly 38%
2020 Total Agree (n=107) 66%
2025 Agree Somewhat 29%
2025 Agree Strongly 52%
2025 Total Agree (n=195) 81% There is a statistically significant difference, up, at the 95% confidence level, between 2020 and 2025 elements of Productivity.
Self-Advocates were more likely to be satisfied with all aspects of IPSII, as compared to those whose responses were provided on their behalf by a parent or family member.
I am satisfied with my current level of:
Independence
Total 2025 (n=318) 72%
Self-Advocate 2025 (n=196) 80% There is a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level between Self-Advocates vs. Parent, Family Advocacy in 2025.
Parent, Family Advocacy 2025 (n=122) 61%
Self-Determination
Total 2025 (n=318) 71%
Self-Advocate 2025 (n=196) 79% There is a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level between Self-Advocates vs. Parent, Family Advocacy in 2025.
Parent, Family Advocacy 2025 (n=122) 58%
Integration
Total 2025 (n=318) 73%
Self-Advocate 2025 (n=196) 81% There is a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level between Self-Advocates vs. Parent, Family Advocacy in 2025.
Parent, Family Advocacy 2025 (n=122) 61%
Inclusion
Total 2025 (n=318) 68%
Self-Advocate 2025 (n=196) 78% There is a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level between Self-Advocates vs. Parent, Family Advocacy in 2025.
Parent, Family Advocacy 2025 (n=122) 50%
Productivity
Total 2025 (n=195) 81%
Self-Advocate 2025 (n=155) 85%
Parent, Family Advocacy 2025 (n=40) 65%
The importance of employment for people with developmental disabilities is clearly evident by its impact on satisfaction with all aspects of IPSII.
I am satisfied with my current level of:
Independence
Total 2025 (n=318) 72%
Employed 2025 (n=199) 77% There is a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level between Employed vs Not Employed in 2025.
Not Employed 2025 (n=113) 66%
Self-Determination
Total 2025 (n=318) 71%
Employed 2025 (n=199) 78% There is a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level between Employed vs Not Employed in 2025.
Not Employed 2025 (n=113) 61%
Integration
Total 2025 (n=318) 73%
Employed 2025 (n=199) 77% There is a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level between Employed vs Not Employed in 2025.
Not Employed 2025 (n=113) 67%
Inclusion
Total 2025 (n=318) 68%
Employed 2025 (n=199) 76% There is a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level between Employed vs Not Employed in 2025.
Not Employed 2025 (n=113) 54%
Productivity
Total 2025 (n=199) 81%
Employed 2025 (n=195) 81%
Not Employed 2025 (NA)
White people with developmental disabilities are more likely to be satisfied with their level of Integration and (possibly) Inclusion, as compared to those from the BIPOC communities.
I am satisfied with my current level of:
Independence
Total 2025 (n=318) 72%
White 2025 (n=225) 73%
BIPOC (n=75) 76%
Self-Determination
Total 2025 (n=318) 71%
White 2025 (n=225) 74%
BIPOC (n=75) 72%
Integration
Total 2025 (n=318) 73%
White 2025 (n=225) 77% There is a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level between White vs. BIPOC in 2025
BIPOC (n=75) 65%
Inclusion
Total 2025 (n=318) 68%
White 2025 (n=225) 72%
BIPOC (n=75) 65%
Productivity
Total 2025 (n=195) 81%
White 2025 (n=149) 82%
BIPOC (n=41) 80%
The 2023 study showed that members of BIPOC communities who do not have any disabilities are almost 3 times more likely than white people without disabilities to experience unfair treatment, barriers from needed products or services, and restrictions from privileges that are available to others.
The Discrimination Score of 33 for White Without Disability represents a minimum level of discrimination that should be experienced by all groups within an inclusive society.
2023 - These benchmark Discrimination scores were established from the Intersectionality II study completed in September 2023 (project 2508)
The three questions used to measure incidences of discrimination are shown here. Adding up the YES percents from the three questions yields a total discrimination index score for each group.
Within the past 12 months, do you believe you...(percent who responded YES)
White WITHOUT disability (n=64) 9%
BIPOC WITHOUT disability (n=157) 27%
White WITHOUT disability (n=64) 8%
BIPOC WITHOUT disability (n=157) 29%
White WITHOUT disability (n=64) 16%
BIPOC WITHOUT disability (n=157) 37%
White WITHOUT Disability Discrimination Index = 33 (9+8+16)
BIPOC WITHOUT disability Discrimination Index = 93 (27+29+37)
DISCRIMINATION SCORES - Intersection of Disability with Race, Ethnicity
Having a developmental disability has more impact than race or ethnicity on discrimination experiences related to unfair treatment, barriers from needed products or services, and restrictions from privileges that are available to others.
However, those who live at the intersection between having a developmental disability and being part of the non-white BIPOC community appear to be more likely to experience restrictions from opportunities, privileges or activities that are available to others.
Within the past 12 months, do you believe you...(percent who responded YES)
2023 White WITHOUT disability (n=64) 9%
2023 BIPOC WITHOUT disability (n=157) 27%
2025 White WITH disability (n=225) 37%
2025 BIPOC WITH disability (n=75) 49%
2023 White WITHOUT disability (n=64) 8%
2023 BIPOC WITHOUT disability (n=157) 29%
2025 White WITH disability (n=225) 49%
2025 BIPOC WITH disability (n=75) 49%
2023 White WITHOUT disability (n=64) 16%
2023 BIPOC WITHOUT disability (n=157) 37%
2025 White WITH disability (n=225) 32%
2025 BIPOC WITH disability (n=75) 35%
2023 White WITHOUT Disability Discrimination Index = 33 (9+8+16)
2023 BIPOC WITHOUT disability Discrimination Index = 93 (27+29+37)
2025 White WITH Disability Discrimination Index = 118 (37+49+32)
2025 BIPOC WITH Disability Discrimination Index = 133 (49+49+35)
Parents or siblings who took the survey on behalf of a family member with developmental disabilities were more likely than self-advocates to indicate their child or sibling experienced barriers to needed products or services, or restrictions from opportunities, privileges or activities that are available to others. These differences may be due to differences in age, the nature of the disabilities between the two respondent groups, or both.
Within the past 12 months, do you believe you...(percent who responded YES)
2023 White WITHOUT disability (n=64) 9%
2023 BIPOC WITHOUT disability (n=157) 27%
2025 Children of Parent Advocates(n=126) 46%
2025 Self-Advocates (n=144) 35%
2023 White WITHOUT disability (n=64) 8%
2023 BIPOC WITHOUT disability (n=157) 29%
2025 Children of Parent Advocates(n=126) 57%
2025 Self-Advocates (n=144) 46%
2023 White WITHOUT disability (n=64) 16%
2023 BIPOC WITHOUT disability (n=157) 37%
2025 Children of Parent Advocates(n=126) 29%
2025 Self-Advocates (n=144) 33%
2023 White WITHOUT Disability Discrimination Index = 33 (9+8+16)
2023 BIPOC WITHOUT disability Discrimination Index = 93 (27+29+37)
2025 White WITH Disability Discrimination Index = 132 (46+57+29)
2025 BIPOC WITH Disability Discrimination Index = 116 (35+46+33)
Just over a third of the respondents (37%) believe special education services for students with developmental disabilities will be worse off in two years compared to today. This negative outlook is over twice as high as it was in 2020.
Looking ahead 2 years, do you believe we'll be better off, the same, or worse off, related to: SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
Better off
2020 (n=191) 9%
2025 (n=307) 14%
The same
2020 (n=191) 27%
2025 (n=307) 21%
Worse off
2020 (n=191) 17%
2025 (n=307) 37%
Don't know
2020 (n=191) 47%
2025 (n=307) 28%
Quote: Special education funding (or possibly the Department of Education entirely) will be less, and there may not be programs and accommodations to make it so people with developmental disabilities can attend or be successful in schools. It is incredibly terrifying!
Quote: The Department of Education not holding districts accountable when they have done wrong. The Department of Education acts like a pal to the districts and does not support our children in their education.
Quote: Worried school funds will be cut, knowing the special education funds are the first to be removed.
Just over a third of the respondents (35%) believe people with developmental disabilities will be worse off in two years related to employment services and opportunities. This negative outlook is significantly higher than it was in 2020 (19%).
Looking ahead 2 years, do you believe we'll be better off, the same, or worse off, related to: EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
Better off
2020 (n=191) 17%
2025 (n=307) 19%
The same
2020 (n=191) 27%
2025 (n=307) 25%
Worse off
2020 (n=191) 19%
2025 (n=307) 35%
Don't know
2020 (n=191) 37%
2025 (n=307) 21%
Quote: Being excluded from job opportunities because of disabilities, being robbed of what they need or want in order to get a job, being told they aren't going to get a job because of a disability.
Quote: Having adequate funding for programs we currently have. Having funding for the work program and staffing that help me have independence and good quality of life.
Quote: Competitive Integrated Employment for people with disabilities is also a big issue. People with disabilities need to have a job that pays a living wage and where the person can be fulfilled and feel accomplished, just like any other person.
In terms of overall financial wellbeing for household and family, 30% of respondents believe they will be worse off in two years compared to today. This negative outlook is significantly higher than it was in 2020 (18%).
Looking ahead 2 years, do you believe we'll be better off, the same, or worse off, related to: OVERALL FINANCIAL WELLBEING FOR HOUSEHOLD AND FAMILY
Better off
2020 (n=191) 14%
2025 (n=307) 18%
The same
2020 (n=191) 43%
2025 (n=307) 33%
Worse off
2020 (n=191) 18%
2025 (n=307) 30%
Don't know
2020 (n=191) 24%
2025 (n=307) 19%
Quote: Having Medicaid and waivers cut. These programs at their current funding aren't enough financial support for most individuals with disabilities. Then the burden falls on the families.
Quote: If you ask, individuals with disabilities just want to do what everyone else does. And financially it isn't always possible. So, any cuts in funding will be incredibly detrimental to the basic rights of individuals with disabilities.
Quote: Possible reduced funding from the State and Social Security. No places to live independently or not enough support workers, financial support to make it a viable option.
Quote: Funding being reduced, both at the state and local level. People will not be able to afford to live in their own homes with their families. We may not be able to hire people to take care of people with disabilities due to lack of funding.
Quote: People with disabilities might get a raise, but it is nowhere near price increases. We really have to watch where our money goes. We have a certain amount for bills, medication and food. It's getting harder and harder. I have a full-time job, so I don't qualify for most services. I have to sit down and really look at my budget. I have to make hard decisions every week, every month, every year. I wish I could qualify for some services to help with my housing, groceries, and transportation.
Quote: The more you try to make, the more they take away. If I make over $2,000, I lose services. We need these services! Don't knock us down when we're trying to build ourselves up.
Thinking of the next five years, fear of funding cuts and the resulting lack of accessible and affordable services was of most concern to Minnesotans with developmental disabilities.
What are the most critical issues that Minnesotans with developmental disabilities will face over the next five years? (coded open-end responses, total sample n=307)
Fear of Defunding, Lack of Accessible and Affordable Services:
General Programs and Supports, All Programs 32%
Housing 19%
Employment 17%
Medicaid, Healthcare 14%
Education 14%
Transportation 12%
Staffing, Staff support 11%
Other 11%
Discrimination, Bullying, Unequal Treatment 16%
Political Climate, Current Administration 14%
Other 21%
Quote: Continued funding, especially for transportation, housing, employment, day treatment, and other such programs. I do not trust the federal government to be the party responsible for disability funding. I have much more faith in state and county funding.
Discrimination, Bullying, Unequal Treatment: Lack of compassion at the federal level could result in more discrimination against people with disabilities.
Quote: Defunding of Medicaid and closing the Department of Education and other current political agendas These things also negatively affect the attitudes of the general population and encourage things like bullying, discrimination, isolation and uncaring attitudes that so many have worked to change over the years.
Quote: Current US administration and population seem to consider those with a disability as lesser or expendable people.
Quote: Being integrated into society and having the same opportunities without being made to feel "special."
Quote: Being teased by others and being called names. Not being understood by others.
Quote: There are current proposals to cut important programs that affect people with disabilities: Medicaid, Waivers, Social Security, School Programs, and Housing.
Quote: Cuts to waiver programs that I access and rely on to remain at home and be a part of my community... So many programs we as disabled people rely on.
Quote: With the cuts to important programs, the next two years look extremely scary!
From qualitative interviews among MN GCDD Council Members, developmental disabilities community leaders, advocates and self-advocates, 7 themes representing the most critical issues facing Minnesotans with developmental disabilities were revealed:
Transportation
Employment
Special Education
Accessing Services
Staffing Shortages
Inclusive Spaces
Funding Concerns
Transportation plays a critical role in the overall wellbeing of people with developmental disabilities. However, Minnesota's transportation system fails many people with developmental disabilities, with inconsistent service in rural and suburban areas, inadequate support for high-needs riders, and a shift toward metro-wide providers that deprioritize individualized care.
Quote: For our community, transportation is really tied to independence and mental health. It's really basic, people need to get to the doctor, to work, to live their lives. But right now, the system isn't working for them.
(Advocacy Non-Profit)
The lack of accessible and affordable transportation options in Minnesota ñ particularly in outer-ring suburbs, smaller cities, and rural areas ñ creates significant barriers for individuals with developmental disabilities. Limited public transit infrastructure, high costs for alternative services like taxis, and geographic disparities leave many without reliable mobility, exacerbating social and economic inequities.
Quote: If you live in an outer-ring suburb or Greater Minnesota, your public transportation options are very, very limited. (Advocacy Non-Profit)
Quote: Many people living with disabilities aren't able to drive, and so one of their biggest challenges has to do with transportation, because we just don't really have a robust public transportation system in Minnesota. (Advocacy Non-Profit)
Quote: I look at the transportation around here, up in the Duluth area. You think it wouldn't be that difficult, but there's not much access for people with disabilities unless you want to take a cab and can pay for it. But who can? I don't even want to pay for a cab. Council Member
While Minnesota may have made progress in transportation accessibility for more independent individuals, significant gaps remain for high-needs riders, particularly those with complex medical or behavioral requirements.
Quote: I think for the most independent folks, transportation in Minnesota has taken some really, really positive steps forward. My concern really lies in where we're at and where we're headed for transportation for people that have the highest needs, both medical and behavioral. (Disability Transportation Consultant)
Tiered reimbursement rates to fairly compensate high-needs transportation are needed. Current reimbursement structures fail to incentivize adequate service for users with more intensive needs, as providers receive the same compensation regardless of passenger requirements.
Quote: If you're paid the same for an ambulatory ride as a wheelchair ride, the motivation to not provide high-needs rides is huge. (Disability Transportation Consultant)
The trend of shifting toward outsourcing to metro-wide providers (e.g. Metro Mobility) risks deprioritizing personalized care. Whereas community-based, non-profit services demonstrate stronger accountability and rider-centered service due to their direct relationships with clients.
Quote: The closer you are to the rider and service provider, the more motivated you are to care about each individual rider. (Disability Transportation Consultant)
Employment for people with developmental disabilities achieves two very important interconnected dimensions of wellbeing: societal inclusion and personal empowerment. Participation in the workforce is not just an economic necessity, but a vital pathway to dignity, participation, and visibility in society.
Societal Inclusion - There are transformative psychological and social benefits to work, such as confidence, belonging, and self-worth.
Quote: It is underestimated how people gain confidence when they are working. We see that difference after they have the opportunity to experience success. We see people come in that won't talk to hardly anybody, and a year later, six months later, they have friends. They're talking. They feel really good about what they're doing. And that's just immeasurable.
Personal Empowerment - Employment gives people with developmental disabilities a voice in society, preventing isolation and marginalization.
Quote: If you don't have people with disabilities being employed, you're pulling on society. And so, there's a gain as a taxpayer; and if you're a taxpayer, you have a voice, which says, 'These are my tax dollars, here's how they should be spent.' Keeping people with disabilities in the home isolates them, and then they just don't exist in society.
Despite progress from several federal and state initiatives, employment opportunities for people with developmental disabilities face challenges, including employer reluctance, Medicaid cuts, and staffing shortages. While the decline of sheltered workshops marks positive change, the push to eliminate subminimum wages risks unintended job losses. Sustained progress requires addressing systemic barriers while promoting inclusive hiring.
Sheltered Workshops to Integrated Employment
The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst for positive change in disability services, accelerating the shift away from segregated, sheltered workshops toward more inclusive community-based day activities and integrated paid employment.
Quote: I think there have been some real positive outcomes that COVID really shook. It catapulted organizations that were providing sheltered work, segregated piece work inside large day program centers. It catapulted them into changing the way they deliver services. They have closed some big, sheltered workshops, and are moving toward meaningful day activities in the community and paid integrated employment. Council member
While Minnesota took steps to eliminate subminimum wage with the aim to promote fairness, it may have unintentionally reduced work options for some people with developmental disabilities. Those with higher support needs risk losing structured employment opportunities which could result in:
Note: Section 14C of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) permits employers to pay certain workers with disabilities less than the federal minimum wage.
Quote: The majority of providers in the state of Minnesota have or are in the process of getting rid of their 14C certification... If it's eliminated, none of those organizations will be able to [pay subminimum wage], and so individuals won't be able to work. I just don't see them being able to get a job.
Quote: If 14C goes away, many individuals won't find work. Employers can't subsidize the wage gap. (Employer of people with disabilities)
Quote: Somebody forgot that each person's an individual... [For some], that was their place. That was where they worked. That was their job. (Employment Specialist)
Chronic underfunding of disability services has created a crisis of low wages, severe staff shortages, and reduced vocational services, leaving individuals without critical supports and worsening systemic barriers to employment.
Quote: Data shows unemployment rates for people with disabilities have dropped but funding instability could reverse gains.
Funding Cuts - State-level budget shortfalls in vocational rehabilitation services have led to severe cuts, and without intervention, this trend threatens to further diminish critical supports for individuals with disabilities in the coming years.
Quote: There are issues at the state level that vocational rehabilitation services has overspent, and now they're cutting services way back. If the trajectory continues in this direction, definitely in five years, things could be worse.
Employer Reluctance - Despite policy advancements, many employers have failed to follow through with meaningful workplace inclusion. Corporate disability initiatives often prioritize optics over structural change, leaving workers with developmental disabilities without real opportunities for advancement.
Quote: Most employers do not hire people with developmental disabilities; there has to be something in it; it has to be intentional. Employer of People With Disabilities
The pandemic worsened systemic inequities in special education, exposing gaps in accommodations, funding, and support, while weakened oversight and ongoing struggles for resources threaten long-term recovery for students with disabilities.
Exclusion - In the years following COVID, special education has faced growing challenges, including rising issues of segregation, restriction, and restraint.
Quote: Special education has been challenged in the last five years in a way that has led to things like more restraint. We had done a lot of work to try to prevent those things from happening. Unfortunately, the education landscape has been so challenged that we can't really report a lot of progress in those areas in the last five years. (Community Leader, Advocate)
Overlooked - The shift to remote learning exacerbated existing inequities, leaving many students without appropriate accommodations. The lack of recovery efforts for this group has had long-term consequences, with some still struggling to reintegrate into structured learning environments.
Quote: Distance learning affected our entire cohort of students who basically just kind of got the shaft. There was no real compensatory action that was very adequate to support them. (Community Leader, Advocate)
Uncertainty - There is uncertainty about the future of special education if states are given more control and less federal oversight, especially given that special education is seen as never having been fully funded nationally or in Minnesota.
Quote: Most people would feel that we've never fully funded special education throughout our country and in Minnesota as well. So, if that comes back to the states it will allow a lot more flexibility for states, and they won't have to provide all the supports and services they are currently required to provide. (Community Leader, Advocate)
Barriers - Obtaining necessary school resources, such as Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) can be very difficult.
Quote: I think about young people with developmental disabilities and making sure that they're getting what they need in school. We hear from people who are having a really hard time getting IEPs because their child has developmental disabilities, and the school district decides whether or not they're going to recognize a student's educational needs. It's just amazing how challenging it can be for people to get the resources and the support that they need for their kids. (Community Leader, Advocate)
Accessing needed services and supports for people with developmental disabilities is significantly difficult, largely due to a complex and confusing system. This difficulty is a critical challenge impacting their lives and well-being.
Wage Disparities to Missed Opportunities
Wage Disparities - Significant wage disparities between developmental disability service providers and other care sectors create recruitment and retention challenges, as workers are incentivized to pursue higher-paying roles elsewhere.
Quote: If you look at other similar types of services, individuals don't get paid as much to provide those supports in the disability services as they do, for instance, in like nursing homes. So that, I think, is a big problem.
Missed Opportunities - Severe staffing shortages in disability support services are exacerbating growing waiting lists and limiting job placement opportunities, leaving individuals unable to access the tailored support they need to succeed in suitable employment.
Quote: Providers can't find staff to support job placements. Waiting lists are growing. This is worse than five years ago.
Quote: If there were enough support staff, then everyone could be supported in the job that best fits them. But without that support, some people aren't able to be successful.
There is strong support for universally designed spaces intentionally created to accommodate people with developmental disabilities, neurodivergence, and sensory sensitivities. Spaces planned in this way not only meet the needs of individuals with disabilities but also enhance usability and comfort for all members of society.
Designing spaces for people with developmental disabilities from the outset creates better environments for everyone. Accessibility is not a niche; it's a foundation for a more equitable and functional society.
Quote: We need public parks that are designed for kids with autism. Families don't know where to take their children. Integration is very challenging and limited for these parents. (BIPOC Community Leader, Advocate)
Quote: These ideas can work to even calm and de-stress people without disabilities, increasing their productivity and quality of life. For example, sensory-friendly lighting and acoustics help those with autism, but also reduce stress for the public. And visual calming techniques aid neurodivergent individuals while also improving focus and relaxation for others. (Self Advocate)
Quote: If I can't get into a space, I'm not part of the community. (Community Leader, Parent Advocate)
APPENDIX
Independence
Self-Determination
Integration
Inclusion
Productivity
There are some clear differences in the nature of the disabilities between self-advocates and those whose survey was completed by (or with the help of) a parent advocate.
Children of Parent Advocates (n=136)
Self-Advocates (n=203)
Intellectual or Developmental Cognitive Disability
Children of Parent Advocates 50%
Self-Advocates 37%
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Children of Parent Advocates 41%
Self-Advocates 20%
Epilepsy
Children of Parent Advocates 26%
Self-Advocates 7%
Cerebral Palsy
Children of Parent Advocates 22%
Self-Advocates 8%
Other Disability
Children of Parent Advocates 22%
Self-Advocates 25%
Condition that limits one or more physical activities (walking, climbing stairs, lifting, or carrying)
Children of Parent Advocates 18%
Self-Advocates 20%
Brain Injury
Children of Parent Advocates 17%
Self-Advocates 11%
Other Neurological Condition
Children of Parent Advocates 12%
Self-Advocates 7%
Blindness or Severe Vision impairment
Children of Parent Advocates 11%
Self-Advocates 6%
Down Syndrome
Children of Parent Advocates 11%
Self-Advocates 5%
Deaf, DeafBlind, Hard of Hearing
Children of Parent Advocates 9%
Self-Advocates 6%
None of the above
Children of Parent Advocates 1%
Self-Advocates 1%
Although total agreement is relatively high on all statements, strong agreement is relatively low for the two community statements, and for the statement: I have enough money to live on. This suggests there is room for improvement, especially in these three areas.
2025 Total Sample n=325
Aspects of COMMUNITY
My community is a good place for people with developmental disabilities
Strongly Disagree 3%
Somewhat Disagree 6%
Neither 11%
Somewhat Agree 38%
Strongly Agree 42%
TOTAL AGREE 80%
My community is becoming a better place for individuals with developmental disabilities
Strongly Disagree 4%
Somewhat Disagree 7%
Neither 14%
Somewhat Agree 42%
Strongly Agree 32%
TOTAL AGREE 74%
I feel comfortable where I live, it feels like home
Strongly Disagree 3%
Somewhat Disagree 2%
Neither 4%
Somewhat Agree 26%
Strongly Agree 65%
TOTAL AGREE 91%
I have enough money to live on
Strongly Disagree 8%
Somewhat Disagree 14%
Neither 14%
Somewhat Agree 33%
Strongly Agree 32%
TOTAL AGREE 65%
I have access to the healthcare I need
Strongly Disagree 2%
Somewhat Disagree 4%
Neither 5%
Somewhat Agree 34%
Strongly Agree 54%
TOTAL AGREE 88%
I feel safe in the neighborhood where I live
Strongly Disagree 2%
Somewhat Disagree 2%
Neither 3%
Somewhat Agree 29%
Strongly Agree 64%
TOTAL AGREE 93%
Having more choice of support staff, and being able to find suitable housing, are two areas of independence in most need of improvement.
2025 Total Sample n=319
I can be alone and have privacy, when I feel I need it
Strongly Disagree 4%
Somewhat Disagree 5%
Neither 8%
Somewhat Agree 27%
Strongly Agree 55%
TOTAL AGREE 82%
I can find housing that suits my needs
Strongly Disagree 11%
Somewhat Disagree 11%
Neither 17%
Somewhat Agree 21%
Strongly Agree 40%
TOTAL AGREE 61%
I choose the staff who works with me
Strongly Disagree 11%
Somewhat Disagree 9%
Neither 32%
Somewhat Agree 19%
Strongly Agree 28%
TOTAL AGREE 48%
I am satisfied with my current level of independence
Strongly Disagree 5%
Somewhat Disagree 11%
Neither 12%
Somewhat Agree 32%
Strongly Agree 40%
TOTAL AGREE 72%
Though there is room for improvement on all areas of self-determination, ability to decide how public funds are spent for services and support appears to be an area of improvement that is most needed.
2025 Total Sample n=317
I have control over how I present myself and my living space
Strongly Disagree 3%
Somewhat Disagree 8%
Neither 10%
Somewhat Agree 30%
Strongly Agree 49%
TOTAL AGREE 79%
I have control over my daily schedule
Strongly Disagree 5%
Somewhat Disagree 9%
Neither 10%
Somewhat Agree 34%
Strongly Agree 42%
TOTAL AGREE 76%
I can decide how I spend my personal money
Strongly Disagree 3%
Somewhat Disagree 7%
Neither 12%
Somewhat Agree 26%
Strongly Agree 51%
TOTAL AGREE 77%
I can make decisions that will affect my future
Strongly Disagree 3%
Somewhat Disagree 7%
Neither 15%
Somewhat Agree 29%
Strongly Agree 45%
TOTAL AGREE 74%
I can decide how public funds are spent for my services and support
Strongly Disagree 13%
Somewhat Disagree 15%
Neither 29%
Somewhat Agree 22%
Strongly Agree 21%
TOTAL AGREE 43%
I am satisfied with my current level of self determination
Strongly Disagree 4%
Somewhat Disagree 9%
Neither 15%
Somewhat Agree 31%
Strongly Agree 40%
TOTAL AGREE 71%
Although integration has improved over previous years, given that half or less of the survey respondents agree strongly with each statement, suggests there is much room for overall improvement in integration of people with developmental disabilities.
2025 Total Sample n=314
The personal supports I require are available to me
Strongly Disagree 4%
Somewhat Disagree 12%
Neither 10%
Somewhat Agree 35%
Strongly Agree 39%
TOTAL AGREE 74%
I have opportunities to do things with people my age
Strongly Disagree 7%
Somewhat Disagree 13%
Neither 8%
Somewhat Agree 30%
Strongly Agree 42%
TOTAL AGREE 72%
I have access to adequate transportation when I need it
Strongly Disagree 5%
Somewhat Disagree 10%
Neither 7%
Somewhat Agree 27%
Strongly Agree 51%
TOTAL AGREE 78%
Restaurants, stores, parks are accessible to me
Strongly Disagree 3%
Somewhat Disagree 8%
Neither 5%
Somewhat Agree 32%
Strongly Agree 52%
TOTAL AGREE 84%
I am satisfied with my current level of integration
Strongly Disagree 6%
Somewhat Disagree 11%
Neither 10%
Somewhat Agree 33%
Strongly Agree 40%
TOTAL AGREE 73%
Although integration has improved over previous years, given that half or less of the survey respondents agree strongly with each statement, suggests there is much room for overall improvement in integration of people with developmental disabilities.
2025 Total Sample n=313
People without a disability treat me as an equal
Strongly Disagree 8%
Somewhat Disagree 22%
Neither 12%
Somewhat Agree 26%
Strongly Agree 32%
TOTAL AGREE 58%
I am treated with respect by people without disabilities
Strongly Disagree 5%
Somewhat Disagree 14%
Neither 9%
Somewhat Agree 36%
Strongly Agree 36%
TOTAL AGREE 72%
I have friends who do not have developmental disabilities
Strongly Disagree 8%
Somewhat Disagree 9%
Neither 10%
Somewhat Agree 31%
Strongly Agree 42%
TOTAL AGREE 73%
I am satisfied with my level of inclusion in society
Strongly Disagree 9%
Somewhat Disagree 10%
Neither 13%
Somewhat Agree 32%
Strongly Agree 36%
TOTAL AGREE 68%
Being challenged by work responsibilities, and rewarded fairly, appear to be areas most in need of improvement related to feelings of productivity.
2025 Total Sample n=195
I am challenged by my responsibilities
Strongly Disagree 4%
Somewhat Disagree 10%
Neither 12%
Somewhat Agree 40%
Strongly Agree 33%
TOTAL AGREE 74%
I am rewarded fairly for the things I do
Strongly Disagree 7%
Somewhat Disagree 7%
Neither 10%
Somewhat Agree 34%
Strongly Agree 43%
TOTAL AGREE 77%
I have been improving my skills
Strongly Disagree 3%
Somewhat Disagree 4%
Neither 8%
Somewhat Agree 30%
Strongly Agree 56%
TOTAL AGREE 86%
I am as productive as I can be given my developmental disability
Strongly Disagree 5%
Somewhat Disagree 6%
Neither 11%
Somewhat Agree 26%
Strongly Agree 53%
TOTAL AGREE 76%
I am satisfied with my current level of productivity
Strongly Disagree 6%
Somewhat Disagree 7%
Neither 7%
Somewhat Agree 29%
Strongly Agree 52%
TOTAL AGREE 81%
The proportion of survey respondents who work or volunteer has remained consistent going back to the survey in 2010.
Do you work or volunteer outside your home? (Adults 18+)
Yes, I have a job I get paid for
2010 (n=127) 54%
2015 (n=257) 56%
2020 (n=107) 57%
2025 (n=313) 50%
Yes, I volunteer my time
2010 (n=127) 22%
2015 (n=257) 13%
2020 (n=107) 11%
2025 (n=313) 14%
No
2010 (n=127) 24%
2015 (n=257) 31%
2020 (n=107) 37%
2025 (n=313) 36%
There appears to be gradual improvement since 2010 in perceptions of having the right number of hours of work.
Do you feel your work or volunteer is...(those who work or volunteer)
Too many hours
2010 (n=92) 4%
2015 (n=174) 5%
2020 (n=107) 3%
2025 (n=196) 6%
The right amount of hours
2010 (n=92) 61%
2015 (n=174) 70%
2020 (n=107) 72%
2025 (n=196) 77% There is a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level between 2010 and 2025.
Too few hours
2010 (n=92) 35%
2015 (n=174) 25%
2020 (n=107) 25%
2025 (n=196) 17%
From your MarketResponse International Team
TOM PEARSON - Managing Director t.pearson@marketresponse.com
DEREK PEARSON - Sr Director of Operations d.pearson@marketresponse.com
LYNN SCHREIFELS - Sr Research Manager l.schreifels@marketresponse.com
SUSAN McCullough - Sr Research Director s.mccullough@marketresponse.com
The preparation of this publication was financed in part by grant number 2401MNSCDD from the Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects with government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official ACL policy.