2025 Minnesota Legislative Session: A Call to Action for Disability Services
Summitted by: Suzanne R. Horstman – Executive Director

On January 23rd, the Grassroots Taskforce launched another year of advocacy, noting the historic circumstances surrounding the start of the 2025 Minnesota legislative session. Among a variety of important issues, one of the key concerns is the Governor’s Budget proposal. Governor Walz has proposed cutting approximately $600 million from services over the next four years. Some of these proposed cuts identified by the Department of Human Services would have a significant negative impact on Home and Community-Based services like HCO, including:

  • Limiting rate exceptions that support individuals with the highest needs and require specialized placements.
  • Restricting residential billing services to 351 days per year, leaving providers without adequate funding for services provided.
  • Increasing documentation and payroll accounting requirements for providers, without additional funding, while the Department of Human Services (DHS) requests more full-time employees to oversee these burdens.
  • Reducing rates for overnight services, which are already difficult to staff.
  • Capping the inflationary adjustment for the Disability Waiver Rate System.  Reducing adjustments below the rate of inflation will further strain a workforce already facing a 45% turnover rate.

These cuts significantly impact individuals in Minnesotans with developmental disabilities. The Governor and Department of Human Services’ proposed budget threatens essential services that support members of our Winona community. It is disheartening to witness our leaders target individuals who have few resources—financial or social—and are often unable to advocate for their own well-being. The suggestion of cuts that would severely impact these already marginalized communities should be a source of shame for our state, as it leaves those most in need defenseless.

In light of these challenges, the Grassroots Taskforce recognizes that advocacy will be crucial. Disability services are not just budget items—they are essential investments in people’s lives. Communicating this effectively to legislators requires a united, grassroots effort. Advocates must share their stories and demonstrate the tangible impact these services have on individuals, families, and communities.

We are asking for your partnership with HCO and the Grassroots Taskforce to advocate for disability services. We will equip you with the tools and resources necessary to confidently engage in the legislative process. Whether by sharing personal experiences or participating in broader advocacy initiatives, your voice is essential to advancing our collective legislative goals during this critical session.

Together, we can ensure that disability services remain a priority in Minnesota’s budget, supporting those who need it most. Feel free to contact Suzanne Horstman (507-452-1021) to find out how you can make a difference.