Legislation Updates
Action Alert: Proposed Cuts to Medicaid Threaten Critical Supports to Individuals with Disabilities.
Medicaid (Medical Assistance in Minnesota) is more than just a healthcare program, it’s a vital lifeline that supports the independence and dignity of people with disabilities providing essential healthcare, home and community-based services, and support for independent living. Proposed cuts to Medicaid threaten to reduce access to critical services. These changes could force individuals into institutional care, increase financial hardship, and limit their ability to work or participate in their communities.
Governor Waltz is proposing that we reduce Medicaid Waiver funding from 6% to 2% annually. Advocates warn that budget reductions may lead to longer wait times, service denials, and loss of coverage for many who rely on Medicaid. Protecting this program is crucial to ensuring that people with disabilities can live with dignity, autonomy, and the support they need.
How can you help? Reach out to your elected officials and tell them how important Medicaid is to you!
Minnesota Medicaid (Medical Assistance) Fact Sheet
Our Future Starts at Home
Our Future Starts at Home is a coalition of advocates, community leaders, faith leaders and housing champions who believe housing is a basic need and a basic human right. The Arc Northland sees access to affordable accessible housing as a civil right, a social driver of health and one of the first and most important steps in fostering financial stability.
For more information or to get involved visit the Our Future Starts at Home website
Legislative Advocacy Initiatives
Arc Northland works closely with The Arc of Minnesota on legislative advocacy initiatives. Arc Northland is able to keep a pulse on the unique needs of the Arrowhead Region while supporting Minnesotans with disabilities as a whole.
Through public policy work, we can:
Promote and protect the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Advance equity
Support true belonging in community
2025 policy goals cover five main areas:
Social and Community Context
Education Access and Quality
Economic Stability
Neighborhood and Built Environment
Health Access and Quality
These are called Social Determinants (Drivers) of Health. Building our agenda around the Social Determinants (Drivers) of Health shows how different policy issues are connected as they impact the lives of people with disabilities.
View the 2025 Legislative Agenda Here
Arc Northland offers a variety of services to help and support individuals and families with disabilities throughout Northeastern Minnesota.
We are successful in advocating for people with disabilities and their families because of the support of local businesses and community members.
Please consider making a contribution that will improve the future for people of all ages with disabilities throughout Northeastern Minnesota.
Need help? Let us know what questions you have and how we can help.