Transportation independence is a critical factor for the liberty, freedom, and autonomy of the millions of Minnesotans with disabilities. Lack of accessible, affordable, and adequate transportation solutions currently limit the independent mobility of many people with disabilities. As a consequence, these individuals are excluded from enjoying many of the rights and freedoms to which we are all entitled, such as accessing employment, education, healthcare, commerce, and social and community activities. Transportation independence is especially a challenge in Greater Minnesota, where paratransit services are particularly limited while mobility is especially critical to individuals’ ability to live independently.
Self-driving cars present a golden opportunity to restore the independence of millions of Minnesotans with disabilities. Virtually all auto-manufacturers are currently developing self-driving cars and a growing number of states are enacting legislation to advance their adoption. This bill places Minnesota at the forefront of ensuring that both the technology and the policy guiding it produce solutions to the pressing transportation challenges facing people with disabilities.
Please send us your short story why and how this technology will affect your life. Feel free to use some of the above language.
There are several ways to share your story you may:
Fill out the form listed below.
Email us at Council.Disability@state.mn.us
or fax us at 651-296-5935
The survey is now closed. Thank you for your participation.