For 50 years, the Minnesota Council on Disability (MCD) has been at the forefront of advocating for members of the disability community across our state. As we look ahead to the next 50 years, we are encouraged by the media’s increased efforts to bring attention to crucial issues impacting so many of our constituents. From personal journeys to legislative actions, critical concerns to joyous celebrations, your stories are becoming part of community conversations. We want to highlight this ongoing media coverage and share some of these important news stories.
Please note: The links on this page point to external content. While we continue to encourage media outlets to make their digital content accessible, we cannot guarantee the accessibility of this material. Additionally, some of this material may be hosted behind a paywall.
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July 1, 2025
Cuts to Unique Disability Waiver Program Leave Questions for Disabled Minnesotans
Budget-driven reductions to Minnesota’s disability waiver program have raised concerns for the 70,000 individuals who rely on its services. To rein in spending, the Minnesota Department of Human Services will limit growth, scrutinize eligibility more closely, and divert some future applicants to lower-cost options. Linda Wolford, Government Relations Director for MCD, acknowledged the need for savings but reassured current enrollees: “There’s nobody currently on a program that may be able to even feel it at all, or it’s yet to be determined. But if cuts had to be made, I think this was the best way they could do that.”
Cuts to unique disability waiver program leave questions for disabled Minnesotans
June 29, 2025
Ask Us: Mankato Issues About 20 Annual Citations for Illegal Use of Disability Spots
Misuse of disability parking spaces remains a concern in Mankato, with the city averaging fewer than 20 citations a year despite reports of violations. Enforcement is often complaint-driven, but officers also act proactively when property owners request it. Before issuing a citation, an officer considers multiple factors—including whether the space is properly marked and whether the vehicle has the correct permit visibly displayed. Minnesota law sets strict rules for space markings and permit display, requirements that are easier to enforce when signs are uniform and unmistakable. MCD is leading the effort to design a statewide, respectful disability parking sign. Property owners must adopt the new signs starting August 1 to reduce confusion, support enforcement, and promote consistent signage across Minnesota.
Ask Us: Mankato issues about 20 annual citations for illegal use of disability spots
June 28, 2025
New High-Tech, Fully Accessible Conference Room Named After Disability Rights Advocate
MCD honored longtime Access Specialist Margot Imdieke Cross by dedicating a high-tech conference room in St. Paul to her legacy. The space—equipped with assistive listening systems, large screens, and accessible restrooms—reflects the inclusive design standards Margot championed during her 35-year career at the agency and the collaborative spirit she brought to every challenge. Secretary of State Steve Simon, who worked with her as a legislator, described her approach this way: “It wasn’t just her dedication that got her noticed, that got her attention, that made her so effective. She knew how to work with people, not to make them adversaries or enemies, but to sway them to her point of view.” The room now stands as a lasting tribute to both her influence and the inclusive values she brought to public service.
New high-tech, fully accessible conference room named after disability rights advocate
Only 30% of Minneapolis Parks Are Considered Fully Accessible. Advocates Want That to Improve.
New efforts in Minneapolis aim to bridge longstanding accessibility gaps in parks, where just 30% currently meet ADA requirements. The Park Board has hired its first ADA administrator, is testing beach-access mats, and is planning a public ADA-amenities database. MCD’s ADA Director, David Fenley, emphasized, “We realize change is difficult and scary, but to tell a group of folks, who have been excluded from society by the mere existence of structural barriers, that they need to wait for a civil right they have legally had for 34 years is discrimination.” These initiatives directly support MCD’s vision of equitable access to natural and recreational spaces for all Minnesotans.
Only 30% of Minneapolis parks are considered fully accessible. Advocates want that to improve.
June 25, 2025
Judy Garland Festival Attendees Attempt to Break World Record, Celebrate Iconic Minnesotan
At the Judy Garland Festival in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, MCD Council member Myrna Peterson helped lead a Guinness World Record attempt for the most people dancing in wheelchairs in a single location. Set to the music of “Over the Rainbow,” the dance filled Miner’s Pavilion with movement, energy, and community. Peterson, who is dedicated to disability outreach and engagement, said, “It brought tears to my eyes to see so many people enjoying, just having fun … the record, it wasn’t about the record [—] it was about quality of life, opportunities for people with different abilities … I’d do it again in a heartbeat.”
Judy Garland Festival Attendees Attempt to Break World Record, Celebrate Iconic Minnesotan
June 17, 2025
Targeted MN Legislators Were Staunch Amputee Allies
The recent shootings targeting Senator John Hoffman and the late Representative Melissa Hortman deeply shook Minnesota’s disability and amputee communities. As lead sponsor for the “So Every BODY Can Move” bill, Hoffman has advanced mobility and prosthetic access statewide. His efforts were matched by Speaker Hortman’s leadership in the House. In a recent blog post honoring Speaker Hortman and Senator Hoffman, MCD wrote that Hortman was “a dedicated leader and a tireless champion for the rights and dignity of Minnesotans with disabilities.” Their legacies reflect the vision of a barrier-free Minnesota.
Targeted MN Legislators Were Staunch Amputee Allies
May 27, 2025
How Accessible Are Minnesota’s Professional Sports Stadiums?
Minnesota’s professional sports stadiums are increasingly prioritizing accessibility. They now offer features like wheelchair seating across various levels, sensory rooms, and adult changing stations. This progress is a result of collaborative efforts among venues and advocates. David Fenley, ADA Director at the Minnesota Council on Disability, emphasized the benefits of such partnerships: “All the organizations were very willing to partner, because they understand that, ‘if I make this better for you, I make it better for everybody.’” MCD’s involvement has been instrumental in ensuring that stadium designs and amenities are inclusive, serving not only people with disabilities but all attendees.
How Accessible Are Minnesota’s Professional Sports Stadiums?
Residents at St. Paul Senior Apartment Complex Express Concerns Over Broken Elevators
Residents at Graham Place Senior Apartments in St. Paul faced significant challenges over Memorial Day weekend when both elevators in the five-story building were not working. The situation left many seniors, including individuals in wheelchairs and others with limited mobility, effectively stranded. Management advised tenants to use stairs or contact emergency services. That response raised concerns about accessibility and safety. The article referenced the Minnesota Council on Disability’s Elevator Shut Down Guide, which explains that the Minnesota Human Rights Act requires landlords to provide reasonable accommodations that ensure tenants with disabilities have equal access to their homes. This incident highlights why housing providers must plan ahead and follow accessibility laws to protect the rights of people with disabilities and ensure safety and accessibility.
Residents at St. Paul Senior Apartment Complex Express Concerns Over Broken Elevators
May 16, 2025
What Could Congress’ Changes to Medicaid, Food Stamps Mean for Minnesota?
As federal lawmakers consider cuts to Medicaid and food stamp programs, Minnesota officials and advocates express concern over the potential impact on low-income residents. Sumukha Terakanambi, public policy consultant for the Minnesota Council on Disability, explained that increased bureaucratic requirements could divert resources away from direct services, making it harder for people to keep their health coverage. “A lot of people will lose health insurance because of all of these onerous requirements.” He warned that such changes would disproportionately affect people with disabilities, who rely on consistent access to healthcare and support services.
What Could Congress’ Changes to Medicaid, Food Stamps Mean for Minnesota?
March 25, 2025
Rally Held for Disability Services Day at the Minnesota Capitol
The Minnesota Council on Disability joined other disability rights groups at the State Capitol for Disability Advocacy Day. Participants asked lawmakers to increase support for essential disability services, especially with growing concerns about Medicaid across the country. Several speakers emphasized the same point: if these cuts go through, people will suffer. After the rally, attendees met directly with legislators to discuss these important issues.
Rally Held for Disability Services Day at the Minnesota Capitol
March 23, 2025
Ticket Totals for Illegal Parking in Disabled Spots Vary Widely in Minnesota. Do the Numbers Lie?
Disability parking violations remain common across Minnesota, but enforcement varies considerably by community, impacting accessibility statewide. “My sense is that [law enforcement] don’t do it at all, but it sounds like some [tickets] are issued,” said David Fenley, ADA Director for MCD. “Obviously, they don’t enforce it where the number is zero.” He emphasized, “It really is the most basic of rights for people with disabilities,” underscoring how inconsistent enforcement threatens equal access and participation for Minnesotans with disabilities.
Ticket Totals for Illegal Parking in Disabled Spots Vary Widely in Minnesota. Do the Numbers Lie?
March 21, 2025
Legislative Update
Representative Brion Curran recently highlighted their legislative efforts to enhance services for Minnesotans with disabilities at the 2025 MCD Legislative Forum. They emphasized bipartisan legislation addressing significant issues, including House File 2406, which aims to reduce delays caused by the MnCHOICES assessment backlog. House File 2004 ensures access to critical support services for individuals traveling or studying outside Minnesota. Additionally, House File 382 enhances the Disability Waiver Rate System by increasing the competitive workforce factor. This would ultimately improve the quality of care and expand career opportunities for people serving the disability community.
March 20, 2025
Democratic State AGs Promise to Fight Trump’s Executive Power Grab
MCD Chair Nikki Villavicencio spoke at a recent community town hall focused on concerns regarding federal Medicaid cuts under the Trump administration. The town hall featured state attorneys general and local advocates unified in their commitment to safeguarding civil liberties and essential community services. Villavicencio stressed the serious repercussions these cuts could pose for Minnesotans with disabilities, highlighting that Minnesota may lose up to \$1.6 billion in funding in 2027. “As someone who was born with disabilities, I’ve seen time and time again that whenever our communities are short in our budgets, people with disabilities and senior services are cut first.”
Democratic State AGs Promise to Fight Trump’s Executive Power Grab
February 27, 2025
Minnesotans With Disabilities: Cutting Medicaid Would Leave Us Segregated
As Congress debates major budget cuts, the Minnesota Council on Disability (MCD) is advocating to protect Medicaid, a vital program for people with disabilities. David Dively, MCD’s Executive Director, underscores the importance of Medicaid-funded employment incentives that allow individuals to work without losing coverage. “[T]hat’s a service that allows people to be gainfully employed and be on Medicaid at the same time,” he said, highlighting its role in economic independence. Potential Medicaid cuts of up to $800 billion could have devastating consequences for Minnesotans with disabilities, jeopardizing their employment and independence. MCD stresses the need for strong advocacy at both state and federal levels to protect these essential services.
Minnesotans With Disabilities: Cutting Medicaid Would Leave Us Segregated
February 5, 2025
Emergency Planning for Individuals with Disabilities
Crystal Heim, public relations manager at Ability Building Community (ABC) in Rochester, Minnesota, emphasizes the importance of emergency preparedness for people with disabilities. She encourages people to think about their specific needs during an emergency and plan how to meet them. Practicing what to do in an emergency helps people feel more confident and less worried, Heim says. She encourages families to talk regularly about how to handle different types of emergencies, including medical ones. The article refers to MCD’s Emergency Plan for People with Disabilities, an online resource for various emergency situations.
Emergency Planning for Individuals with Disabilities
Minnesotans with Disabilities Say State’s Proposed Budget Cuts Would ‘Bring Us Backward’
Advocates and providers worry that Governor Tim Walz’s proposed changes to disability services, aimed at reducing state spending, may reduce Medicaid waivers that support Minnesotans with disabilities. Sumukha Terakanambi, a policy consultant for the Minnesota Council on Disability, emphasized the potential negative impact. “It would compromise the quality of services people with disabilities receive.” Advocates worry the budget cuts could undo years of progress in disability rights and inclusion, and they ask policymakers to think about their human impact.
Minnesotans with Disabilities Say State’s Proposed Budget Cuts Would ‘Bring Us Backward’
January 29, 2025
Proposed Trims to Minnesota’s Disability Waiver Program Concern People Reliant on Services
Governor Tim Walz wants to limit the growth of Minnesota’s disability waiver program to 2% each year. Trevor Turner, Public Policy Director for the Minnesota Council on Disability, worries this could hurt people with disabilities. He explained, “When you don’t have the automatic inflationary adjustment, then you’re basically just balancing the budget on the backs of people with disabilities.” To better manage costs, Turner supports cutting red tape and making sure Medicaid funds go to services rather than boosting provider profits.
Proposed Trims to Minnesota’s Disability Waiver Program Concern People Reliant on Services