House Human Services Finance
Chair Mohamud Noor
March 23rd, 2023
HF 1434 – Representative Edelson
Dear Chair Noor and members of the Committee,
The Minnesota Council on Disability (MCD) supports HF 1434 and urges members of the committee to do the same.
MCD strongly believes that every individual deserves equal opportunities and access to resources that help them thrive, especially children with disabilities and their families. Families with children who have disabilities face various challenges that can often be emotionally and financially draining. Many of these families rely on various medical and supportive services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and specialized equipment that are essential for their children’s development and wellbeing. Unfortunately, these services and equipment can be prohibitively expensive, especially for families with limited resources.
TEFRA is a federal law that allows states like Minnesota to establish programs that provide health care services to children with disabilities. However, the program also charges a monthly premium or a “TEFRA fee” to families whose income exceeds a certain threshold. This fee can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month, depending on the family’s income level and the services their child needs.
The problem with TEFRA fees is that they can create an additional financial burden for families who are already struggling to make ends meet. These fees can put families in a difficult position, forcing them to choose between paying for their child’s medical and supportive services and other basic necessities, such as food, housing, and transportation.
HF 1334, which eliminates TEFRA fees for families with children who have disabilities, is a step in the right direction towards creating a more equitable and inclusive society. This would mean that families can access the necessary services and equipment without being subjected to additional financial pressure, allowing them to focus on the wellbeing and development of their disabled child.
Please support HF 1434 and support children with disabilities and their families.
Sincerely,
Trevor Turner
Public Policy Director