(St. Paul, MN) – In last week’s special session, the Minnesota Senate passed over $30 million in aid and grants for disability service providers who have been severely affected by a loss of business from Covid-19. $20.3 million will be drawn from the state’s coronavirus relief fund; the rest will be drawn from established public health grants. Further, the bill expands eligibility for an elderly customized living program to those with disabilities for one month. Both pieces of Senate File 1 are significant moves to protect the most vulnerable in Minnesota communities.

“It is high time that this funding passed in both legislative bodies,” said Senator Torrey Westrom (R-Elbow Lake). “Our disabled population and their wonderful care providers have been left too long to fend for themselves, and many have closed their doors. Theirs is some of the most essential work in our communities; it gives everyone a fighting chance at independence and a high quality of life.”

Home and community-based disability service providers were already in dire financial straits before Covid-19 changed operating standards and prevented clients from utilizing services. With increased supplies, distancing standards, and transportation costs, many providers were forced to close their doors. The Senate GOP passed similar legislation in earlier sessions this year, without support from the House DFL majority or Governor Walz. Senate File 1 will finally give these providers some short months of relief to pay for fixed costs and ensure health and safety standards are upheld.

The bill passed unanimously in the Senate. Previously, the Governor expressed reluctance to sign it, but it is anticipated he will now concede after receiving pressure from the Senate majority and a handful of DFL legislators.