Advocacy & Legislative information

Updated March 17, 2026

The legislative session is still in the early stages of the process.  At this point it is difficult to share specific bill numbers and they are still being introduced in the House and Senate.

Today, the Governor is expected to release a proposed state budget that may include caps or reductions to disability services. Given ongoing state budget pressures, a strong focus on fraud, waste, and abuse, potential Medicaid withholds by CMS and a challenging financial forecast, there is real concern that disability services could face additional cuts or restrictions.

Now is a critical time for families, providers, and advocates to reach out to legislators to share your perspective and the impact these decisions have on your life and community.

Key Messages to Share with Legislators

HCBS Are Essential Services

Home and community-based services (HCBS) are provided through the Medicaid program. These critical services enable people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to live full and independent lives in their communities, helping individuals with a wide array of supports from assisting with activities of daily living, to community integration, and employment supports. Every state provides HCBS for people with I/DD. Without these services, individuals with I/DD would have no alternative to receive services and remain in their homes. 

Day and employment services, especially for people with complex needs, are critical to quality of life, independence, and community connection. Any policy or funding changes must ensure continued access to these essential services.

Accountability Matters—Without Harm

We support rooting out fraud and misuse of taxpayer dollars. Solutions to address fraud must be carefully designed so they do not reduce access to services for people who rely on Medicaid and disability supports. Fraud should be targeted without harming Minnesotans with legitimate needs.

Disability Services Are Already Underfunded

Disability services have been underfunded for years and cannot sustain additional cuts. Further reductions, provider moratoriums, or restrictions on expanding services would destabilize the disability support system and limit choices for people and families.

Concerns About System Reform Readiness

Waiver Reimagine is scheduled to go into effect on January 1, 2027. Based on participation in the Waiver Reimagine Task Force, there is significant concern that the state is not yet ready to implement this reform without risking the loss of critical services and supports for many people who rely on waiver funding.  Please encourage your legislators to allow 24-36 months to the implementation timeline to ensure you will have access to the services and supports you rely on.  If this is implemented next year without more stakeholder and community input many people will lose access to the services they are currently receiving.

A Better Path Forward

The Long Term Services and Supports Advisory Council is working to reduce cost growth and improve efficiency, with recommendations due in late 2026. Providers have long advocated for improved streamlining and coordination across state agencies, and meaningful opportunities exist to improve outcomes without cutting essential services.

Your voice matters. Please consider contacting your legislators this week to share why protecting disability services is essential.