Read weekly legislative updates from MCD’s public policy team on disability-related issues at the Minnesota State Capitol.
Questions? Email Joel Runnels or call 651-350-8642.
On this page:
Week 7 (April 7-10)
After a brief legislative break, lawmakers returned to the Capitol and resumed committee hearings. With the first committee deadline now behind them, the focus is shifting from introducing bills to deciding which proposals move forward and whether they will be included in larger omnibus bills.
Here are a few developments from the week as lawmakers begin turning more of their attention to omnibus bills.
Wednesday, April 8 – Senate Human Services Committee
Lawmakers discussed proposals to address the shortage of direct support professionals, a longstanding issue that can make it harder for people with disabilities to get needed services.
Sen. John Hoffman presented SF 1062 and SF 4407. SF 1062 would establish a direct support professional certification pilot project. SF 4407 would extend funding availability and reporting timelines for the Direct Care Services Corps pilot project. The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) testified in support of both proposals. MCIL has helped manage the Direct Care Services Corps pilot and develop the certification program curriculum. Lawmakers expressed interest in both bills and set them aside for possible inclusion in the Human Services Policy omnibus bill.
The committee also discussed Sen. Jordan Rasmusson’s bill, SF 4728, which would restrict eligibility for the CADI (Community Access for Disability Inclusion) waiver to individuals with the highest care needs. Advocates raised concerns about how that change could affect housing stability and access to services. The bill was also set aside for possible inclusion in the omnibus bill.
Friday, April 10 – Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Committee
Lawmakers heard SF 3210, which chief author Sen. Erin Maye Quade has referred to as the “Minnesotans with Disabilities Act.” The bill would amend the Minnesota Human Rights Act to ban disability discrimination in programs, services, and activities that receive state funding. It would require organizations that receive state money to provide reasonable accommodations and not exclude people with disabilities from participating. The change would also give the Minnesota Department of Human Rights a clearer role in enforcing these protections under state law.
MCD submitted a policy letter supporting SF 3210 and attended the hearing to answer legislators’ questions about the bill. The committee passed the bill and referred it to the Senate floor.
Looking Ahead
MCD also helped draft an inclusive playground proposal, HF 4853, which was recently introduced by Rep. Virnig. The bill would require playgrounds built or substantially renovated with state funding to follow inclusive design standards. We are watching to see whether it will receive a hearing.
As the session moves further into April, more attention will shift to drafting and negotiating omnibus bills. Many of the bills heard in recent weeks, including those highlighted above, may not move forward on their own. Instead, lawmakers may combine them into larger bills for further debate and negotiation.
What to expect next:
- Human Services proposals, including those related to the direct support professional workforce and waiver eligibility, will likely be negotiated as part of the Human Services omnibus bill.
- SF 3210 is expected to be heard on the Senate Floor.
- Public committee hearings may become less frequent, while more decisions happen in leadership negotiations and conference committees behind the scenes.
- Late-stage amendments or bill rewrites may become more common as the session approaches adjournment in May.
Week 6 (March 23-27)
Week six was shaped by deadlines and decisions.
Committees moved quickly to act on bills ahead of the first committee deadline on March 27. By 5:00 pm that day, most policy bills needed committee action to keep moving this session. Committees also began marking up bills, which means lawmakers introduced and debated amendments to change bill language before moving bills forward.
Here are selected highlights from the week.
Monday, March 23: Senate Health and Human Services Committee
Lawmakers held an informational hearing on the governor’s budget proposal. The Minnesota Department of Human Services outlined several policy priorities, including:
- Transitioning Medicaid from multiple managed care organizations to a single statewide administrative service organization.
- Adding a state-based MnCHOICES assessment team to address county assessment backlogs. MnCHOICES is Minnesota’s assessment process for determining what services and supports a person may qualify for.
- Phasing out contracted waiver case management by July 1, 2031.
- Implementing federal Medicaid changes and modernizing outdated systems.
- Strengthening program integrity efforts.
Why this matters: The governor’s budget is not law. It is a set of recommendations that help shape legislative discussions and signal priorities for larger budget bills. The decisions lawmakers make on these proposals could affect how disability services are delivered, assessed, and managed in the years ahead.
What’s next: As the session resumes, these proposals may appear in individual policy bills and larger omnibus bills. The next step is to watch how House and Senate human services committees take them up.
Wednesday, March 25: Senate Transportation Committee
The Senate Transportation Committee adopted accessibility-related amendments to SF 4618, a bill regulating connected and automated vehicles (CAVs). MCD’s public policy team, Council members, and disability advocates supported those changes. The amendments included:
- Requiring MnDOT, the Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles, and MCD to develop accessibility guidance.
- Defining wheelchair-accessible CAVs and encouraging their inclusion in on-demand fleets.
- Providing assistive technology and support during emergencies.
- Establishing a minimum number of accessible vehicles in CAV fleets.
Why this matters: Transportation remains a major barrier for many Minnesotans with disabilities. Community feedback to MCD, including its 2025 Legislative Priorities Survey and the February 4 “Let’s Talk About Disability Services in Minnesota” event, reinforced that concern. Decisions made now will shape whether new transportation technology improves access or repeats existing barriers.
What’s next: SF 4618 will continue moving through the legislative process. The next step is to watch whether these accessibility provisions remain in the bill as it moves forward.
Friday, March 27: Senate Human Services Committee
MCD Public Policy Consultant Sumukha Terakanambi testified in support of SF 476, the Human Services Policy Omnibus bill.
He highlighted continuity of care protections for people at risk of service disruption during fraud investigations. Those protections include a continuity of care team responsible for:
- Identifying people at risk of service disruption.
- Quickly notifying individuals, lead agencies, ombudsman offices, and case managers.
- Coordinating backup service plans with lead agencies.
The bill would also include additional continuity of care protections, including:
- A prohibition on withholding payments from providers until continuity of care plans are in place.
- Exceptions when alternative providers are not available.
Why this matters: Continuity of care remains a major priority for Minnesotans with disabilities. These provisions reflect growing recognition among lawmakers that service disruptions can have immediate and serious consequences.
What’s next: SF 476 will continue moving through the legislative process. As negotiations continue, the next step is to watch whether its continuity of care protections are incorporated into a larger human services omnibus bill.
What’s Next
The Legislature is in recess until April 7. When lawmakers return, the focus will shift from committee hearings to omnibus bills. The next update will track which proposals move into those larger packages and what that could mean for Minnesotans with disabilities.
Week 5 (March 16-20)
This week, lawmakers heard testimony and debated proposals that could shape upcoming omnibus bills. Key issues included continuity of care protections, emergency preparedness in schools, and changes to Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), which help people receive support in their homes and communities.
Monday, March 16
Senate Education Policy Committee hearing
Lawmakers heard SF 3717, a bill that would require school districts to adopt crisis management policies. Those policies would need to address the accommodation needs of students with disabilities during emergencies.
People testifying in support said emergency procedures are not always communicated in ways all students can access. Even when plans exist, they may not account for students who cannot hear announcements or see visual cues.
Why this matters: Every student should feel safe at school. Emergency plans should fully address the needs of students with disabilities.
Senate Human Services Committee hearing
Lawmakers questioned the Department of Human Services (DHS) about continuity of care during fraud investigations and broader oversight efforts.
Sen. John Hoffman introduced a draft proposal to create a continuity of care team within DHS. The team would help respond when people are at risk of losing services. It would:
- Identify people affected by service disruptions.
- Notify those individuals and their case managers quickly.
- Work with counties to arrange backup service plans.
The proposal would also include protections to help prevent gaps in care. It would:
- Prohibit withholding payments until plans are in place to keep services going.
- Allow exceptions when people do not have another provider available.
Why this matters: Continuity of care remains one of the most urgent issues facing the disability community. Recent disruptions have had immediate effects on people’s daily lives. MCD continues to support solutions that prioritize stability and person-centered protections.
Wednesday, March 18
Senate Education Policy Committee hearing
Lawmakers discussed SF 4023, which would allow schools to suspend students in kindergarten through third grade for up to one day after certain behavioral incidents.
Supporters said short-term suspensions give schools time to address safety concerns. Opponents raised concerns about disproportionate impacts on students of color and students with disabilities. They also questioned whether removing students from class is an effective response.
Why this matters: Students with disabilities are already more likely to face disciplinary action. Removing students from the classroom can lead to lost learning time and fewer opportunities for support. MCD continues to advocate for inclusive, supportive approaches to school discipline.
Senate Human Services Committee hearing
MCD Legislative Affairs Director Joel Runnels testified on SF 4395 and outlined recommendations to strengthen the bill, which would change how HCBS case management is overseen and delivered.
The bill would:
- Increase oversight and accountability.
- Create competitive contracting processes.
- Establish a legislative workgroup.
- Require a comprehensive rate study.
- End contracted case management by 2029.
MCD raised concerns about ending contracted case management because many counties are already facing staffing and workload challenges. Testimony also stressed that any transition must protect continuity of care so people do not lose access to services.
Why this matters: Case management connects people to critical services. If these changes are not implemented carefully, people could lose support or face disruptions in care. MCD continues to support reforms that improve accountability while protecting the Stability people rely on every day.
Week 4 (March 9–13)
The 2026 legislative session is well underway, with committees hearing policy proposals and considering amendments ahead of spring deadlines.
This week, the Minnesota Council on Disability (MCD) public policy team continued advancing its legislative priorities and tracking policy developments that could affect Minnesotans with disabilities.
Monday, March 9
Senate Health and Human Services Committee Hearing
Lawmakers discussed SF 2621, a proposal to amend the Minnesota Constitution to ensure long-term funding for affordable housing and establish a Community and Household Stability Council. MCD is recognized as a stakeholder by the council.
Why this matters: Access to affordable and accessible housing remains a major barrier for many Minnesotans with disabilities. Including MCD on this council would help ensure disability perspectives are considered in future housing policy decisions.
Tuesday, March 10
Governor Walz Announces Major Human Services Policy Changes
Governor Walz announced a proposal to restructure how human services are delivered in Minnesota. Key elements of the proposal include:
- Transitioning away from Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) toward a single billing system
- Ending contracted case management by 2031
- Having the Department of Human Services conduct eligibility verification and MnCHOICES waiver assessments rather than counties
- Conducting a study of new partnership models with counties
Why this matters: Major structural changes to human services systems could significantly affect how people with disabilities receive support.
MCD will monitor these proposals and work with policymakers to prevent disruptions in services.
Wednesday, March 11
Minnesota Department of Human Rights Announces Lyft Settlement
Minnesota Department of Human Rights Commissioner Rebecca Lucero announced a settlement with Lyft after an investigation found that Lyft drivers violated the Minnesota Human Rights Act by denying service to a rider with a service animal.
The settlement requires Lyft to improve driver education, policies, and accessibility features within the app.
Why this matters: This case highlights the ongoing importance of enforcing disability civil rights laws and ensuring accessible transportation options for Minnesotans with disabilities.
Thursday, March 12
House Human Services Finance and Policy Committee Hearing
Addyson Carpenter, Chair of the Minnesota Council on Disability, testified in support of HF 3800. The bill would limit individual budget reductions under the Waiver Reimagine initiative to no more than 10 percent.
In her testimony, Carpenter described how waiver services support community living for her and her daughter. She said limiting reductions would help prevent people from having to move into an institution.
The committee also discussed legislation from Rep. Noor. The proposal would protect people whose care may be disrupted when fraud investigations interrupt provider payments. It would improve coordination between lead agencies and require notice to affected people about their rights to continue receiving assistance they are still eligible for. The goal is to reduce disruptions that could put housing and community living at risk
Why this matters: Lawmakers have spent much of this session discussing how to balance fraud prevention with continuity of care. MCD continues to work with legislators and community partners to ensure people with disabilities remain at the center of these discussions.
Week 3 (March 2-6)
This week, Minnesota lawmakers discussed several issues that affect people with disabilities, including disability rights, Medicaid, transportation access and long-term care oversight.
Tuesday, March 3
Minnesota House Judiciary Finance and Civil Law Committee Hearing
MCD Legislative Affairs Director Joel Runnels testified in support of HF 2380. The bill would amend the Minnesota Human Rights Act to clarify that failing to engage in the process of identifying appropriate accommodations for a person with a disability may count as discrimination.
The committee heard the bill. Next, it goes to the full House for consideration.
Why this matters: Clearer guidance would reduce confusion, support more consistent enforcement and strengthen disability rights protections.
Wednesday, March 4
U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Hearing
Gov. Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison testified about Minnesota’s response to fraud in federally funded programs, including disability services.
Why this matters: Recent fraud investigations have drawn attention from both state and federal policymakers. Preventing fraud is important, but lawmakers are also considering how to do so without disrupting services for people who rely on them.
Minnesota House Health Finance and Policy Committee Hearing
Lawmakers discussed how recent federal Medicaid changes could affect Minnesota’s Medical Assistance program.
They also discussed bills that would guide counties on how to meet new federal work and paperwork requirements. Some lawmakers emphasized harm reduction and the need to update aging state technology systems as the state responds to those changes.
Why this matters: Federal Medicaid changes could affect eligibility, reporting and other state systems. Minnesota lawmakers are now considering how to respond without interrupting services that people with disabilities rely on.
Minnesota House Transportation Finance and Policy Committee Hearing
Lawmakers discussed HF 3513, a bill on regulating autonomous vehicles.
Advocates said automated vehicles could reduce transportation barriers for people with disabilities. Lawmakers signaled that accessibility should be part of the conversation early on as this technology develops.
Why this matters: As automated vehicle technology expands, decisions made now could shape whether future transportation options are accessible to people with disabilities in Minnesota.
Minnesota Senate Human Services Committee Hearing
The committee discussed SF 2972, a bill that would increase transparency when companies buy nursing homes and assisted living facilities. It would also strengthen oversight of who owns and manages those facilities.
Why this matters: Many Minnesotans with disabilities and older adults rely on long-term care services. Ownership and management changes can affect staffing, quality of care and accountability.
Week 2 (February 23-27)
This week, the Minnesota Council on Disability’s public policy team tracked key policy and budget discussions at the Capitol and in related public forums. Much of the conversation focused on federal changes that could affect Medicaid (Medical Assistance in Minnesota), disability services and the state budget.
Here are selected highlights from the week:
Tuesday, February 24
The Senate Health and Human Services Committee, chaired by Sen. Melissa Wiklund, held an informational hearing. Committee members heard updates from the Minnesota Department of Human Services and discussed federal changes tied to H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The committee did not vote on any bills, but lawmakers are expected to continue reviewing these issues in the weeks ahead.
Wednesday, February 25
HF 3131 was heard in the House Transportation Finance and Policy Committee. Legislative Affairs Director Joel Runnels submitted a letter and testified on behalf of MCD against a proposed amendment that would have created a separate cancer-specific disability parking category. MCD supported keeping disability parking eligibility based on mobility limitations rather than diagnosis. The amendment was removed, and the bill passed out of committee as amended. It now moves to the full House for consideration.
At a University of St. Thomas seminar, Disability Rights on Hold, Sumukha Terakanambi, MCD’s public policy consultant, spoke about recent fraud investigations and their impact on disability services. He emphasized that fraud prevention efforts must protect people who rely on services and avoid unnecessary disruptions. Sumukha also shared that message with the media.
Thursday, February 26
MCD joined a This Is Medicaid coalition briefing for legislators and a press conference about how H.R. 1 could affect Medicaid in Minnesota. The event focused on what those changes could mean for people who rely on coverage and services.
Friday, February 27
Minnesota Management and Budget released the February budget forecast, projecting a $3.7 billion balance for the 2026-27 biennium. Lawmakers will use that forecast in the coming weeks to decide how much they can spend and which budget priorities to move forward.
Also This Week
The federal administration announced that it is deferring $259.5 million in Medicaid funds from Minnesota. A deferral is when the federal government withholds a portion of funding that has been set aside for a state. Officials said the action is tied to alleged fraud and oversight concerns. They gave the state 60 days to submit a corrective action plan. State leaders are reviewing the action and considering next steps.
MCD will keep the community updated as we learn more.
Week 1 (February 17–20)
Senate Health and Human Services Committee Hearing on Federal Budget Impacts
On February 19, members of MCD’s public policy team and MCD Council members attended a Senate Health and Human Services Committee hearing. The hearing focused on how recent federal actions may affect Minnesota’s budget and human services systems.
Lawmakers reviewed the projected consequences of H.R. 1 (the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”), signed into law in July 2025. The federal law includes substantial reductions to Medicaid (Medical Assistance in Minnesota) and SNAP funding, along with new administrative requirements that states must implement in the coming years.
Testimony highlighted concerns about:
- State budget gaps that could push more costs to counties that run disability and waiver services
- More paperwork and reporting for counties because of new eligibility rules and compliance requirements
- The risk that the federal government could delay or hold back some funding tied to certain disability services
- The loss of some public health grants that support local programs and services
- More unpaid care at hospitals, which can increase financial pressure on health systems
- Strain on the home care workforce tied to recent immigration enforcement activity
When Medicaid funding is uncertain, or when payments to providers are delayed, workforce shortages can get worse. That can interrupt services for people with disabilities.
Throughout the hearing, testifiers urged lawmakers to:
- Prevent interruptions in care
- Keep funding steady for essential services
- Upgrade state and county computer and data systems
- Avoid shifting costs to counties in ways that could limit access to services
As federal policy shifts create new uncertainty, MCD will continue tracking committee work and budget decisions. We will keep advocating for uninterrupted care, workforce stability, and the rights of Minnesotans with disabilities.
Week 0 (January 26-30)
Senate and House Human Services Committees Hold Joint Hearing on DHS Prepayment Reviews and Continuity of Care
In late 2025, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) began a prepayment review process for certain Medicaid services DHS identifies as high risk. Under this process, some claims are reviewed before DHS issues payment.
As the process rolled out, Minnesotans with disabilities, service providers, and advocates raised concerns about payment delays and payment holds, which occur when payments are paused or withheld. Many warned that these delays could worsen staffing challenges, strain providers’ finances, and increase the risk of provider closures. They also raised concerns that these impacts could lead to service disruptions for people with disabilities.
On January 28–29, 2026, the Senate and House Human Services Committees held a joint hearing, convened by Senator John Hoffman, to examine these concerns and DHS’s actions. Lawmakers discussed how to prevent fraud while also protecting continuity of care — meaning people can continue receiving services without gaps or sudden interruptions.
On the first day, lawmakers questioned DHS leadership about how the prepayment review process is working in practice. Committee members raised concerns shared by providers and people with disabilities, including payment delays, unclear timelines, and communication challenges. DHS officials described steps they are taking to improve communication with providers, make payments more predictable, and coordinate with counties and case managers when payments are withheld.
On the second day, lawmakers heard directly from providers, direct care workers, and people with disabilities. Providers and workers emphasized that they support fraud prevention, but need clear communication, predictable timelines, and fair processes to challenge decisions. Many stressed that avoiding gaps in services must remain a top priority.
People with disabilities who testified shared that service suspensions would directly affect their dignity, independence, and quality of life. They urged lawmakers and DHS officials to address fraud in ways that protect people who rely on services from disruptions and ensure supports remain in place.
MCD will continue to advocate for fraud prevention approaches that protect people with disabilities and reduce service disruptions. We will share updates on this issue throughout the 2026 legislative session. Stay tuned!
Past Sessions
Looking for updates from past sessions? Visit the Legislative Sessions Archives.