In the wake of recent contentious battles and political maneuvering, Minnesota state lawmakers have limited time to craft and pass meaningful legislation. The remaining days of this legislative session will determine if members prioritize bipartisan solutions that address the pressing needs of Minnesotans with disabilities or remain divided.

While the primary focus for legislators will be negotiating and passing a comprehensive two-year budget that reflects our state’s values, members of both parties must prioritize improving accessibility and support services for people with disabilities. This includes expanding healthcare coverage, strengthening educational accommodations, ensuring housing accessibility, and increasing funding for disability services and support programs that enable all Minnesotans to thrive.

Despite the challenging political climate at both state and federal levels, Minnesota lawmakers can achieve meaningful progress by focusing on disability rights and access. Rather than getting sidetracked by legally questionable social media regulations or overreaching tech bills that could inadvertently restrict online accessibility, they should concentrate on developing bipartisan support for substantive policy reforms that enhance digital inclusion and expand opportunities for people with disabilities.

Kelli Carlson
Minneapolis