Transcript accompanying the video 2023 MCD Legislative Forum: Accessible Affordable Housing on YouTube. Featured in the post Making It Easier to Find Affordable and Accessible Housing.
News
Advocating Policy Changes for Affordable and Accessible Housing
For many people with disabilities, it is challenging to find affordable and accessible housing. Even when available, the level of accessibility may not meet their needs. In Minnesota, there is no consistency when building accessible housing. Julia Page, Public Policy Director for The Arc Minnesota, shares a policy change that would ensure housing built with state dollars works for everyone.
MCD Reflects on the Legacy of Senator David Durenberger
With the passing of Senator David Durenberger on January 31, our state and our nation have lost a true civil rights champion. Senator Durenberger represented Minnesota from 1978 to 1995. His role as a principal co-sponsor of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990, is perhaps his greatest legacy. His deeply held commitment to ensuring equal rights for all Americans, coupled with perseverance, persuasion, bi-partisan collaboration, and encouraging an engaged citizenry, brought the landmark legislation that changed the lives of millions of Americans with disabilities.
What is a Service Animal?
Service animal awareness has increased over the last few years, but it is nowhere near where it needs to be. Folks still parade their pets around as service animals. At the same time, business owners, law enforcement, and property managers do not understand their responsibility to protect the rights of people with disabilities. Every time someone lies about their dog being a service animal it erodes the public’s perception of the vital role a service animal plays for its owner. Service animals allow folks with disabilities to be independent, they allow us to participate in life. Please don’t pretend your pet is a service animal.
Committed to Change: The Legacy of Dennis Prothero
MCD is moved by the passing of Dennis (Denny) Prothero last December. Denny’s story reminds our community that the PCA and homecare shortage is more than a workforce issue. We share his family’s belief that Denny’s legacy is bringing people together – advocates and leaders alike – to move legislation forward.
Business & Property Owners: Keep Disability Parking Spaces Clear
Businesses and other property owners must keep disability parking spaces and access aisles free from obstructions. In the winter, these obstructions include plowed snow. If they don’t, they could be fined up to $500 and be guilty of a misdemeanor. If you come across anything – including plowed snow – in any part of a disability parking space, call your local law enforcement.