In March, the Minnesota Council on Disability’s annual Legislative Forum brought together advocates, legislators, and community members to tackle the barriers that keep Minnesotans with disabilities from living, working, and moving freely. The conversations converged on a single reality: true independence only happens when the state invests in the people and systems that make daily life possible. Two priority issues—direct-care workforce shortages and the lack of on-demand accessible transportation—show exactly why that investment matters.
Blog
Plan, Pack, Practice: Your Emergency Preparedness Guide for Severe Weather Awareness
April is Severe Weather Awareness Month, and the Minnesota Council on Disability (MCD) wants to help you prepare for natural disasters. Spring in Minnesota can bring tornadoes, floods, fires, and other emergencies with little warning. That’s why now is the perfect time to review your emergency plan, restock your Go Bag and Shelter-in-Place bag, and practice your response. Planning ahead can ease anxiety and help you act quickly when it matters most.
Honoring Damon Leivestad: Strengthening Minnesota’s PCA Workforce
The Minnesota Council on Disability pays tribute to the late Damon Leivestad, a passionate advocate who dedicated his life to strengthening the personal care assistance workforce. In this blog post, we highlight Damon’s legacy and the introduction of the Damon Leivestad Direct Care Sustainability Act. The legislation he inspired addresses critical issues like fair wages for home care workers and financial barriers for people with disabilities. Read how Damon’s vision continues to shape policy and empower the disability community in Minnesota.
MCD Is Hiring a Legislative Affairs Director
The Minnesota Council on Disability (MCD) is seeking a passionate and experienced leader to join our team as Legislative Affairs Director.
In this role, you will lead MCD’s legislative strategy—shaping public policy that advances the rights of Minnesotans with disabilities. You’ll manage the agency’s legislative priorities, guide our budget advocacy efforts, and help secure funding for our mission. You’ll also develop policy positions, prepare reports and briefings for lawmakers, testify in front of committees, and build strong working relationships with the Legislature and the Governor’s Office. Join us in making a difference at the Capitol.
Submit your application by April 15, 2025!
Lawmakers and Disability Advocates Connect at 2025 Legislative Forum
Lawmakers and disability advocates came together at MCD’s 2025 Legislative Forum to discuss critical issues facing Minnesotans with disabilities. The event marked a return to in-person dialogue, creating opportunities for real conversations, shared stories, and policy engagement. Legislators from both chambers joined panels, listened to lived experiences, and deepened their understanding of disability issues in Minnesota.
Attorney General Ellison & Secretary of State Simon Bring Powerful Messages to Forum
The Minnesota Council on Disability thanks Attorney General Keith Ellison and Secretary of State Steve Simon for speaking at our 2025 Legislative Forum. Their presence and powerful messages elevated the conversation around disability rights, inclusion, and civic participation—key themes that resonated with attendees. Read the full recap to learn how both leaders are working alongside the disability community to safeguard rights and ensure equal access.