Many individuals with disabilities need to rely on physical access features to access shops, restaurants, theaters, healthcare clinics and conduct activities for daily living. Disability parking spaces, accessible entrances, elevators and wheelchair accessible restroom compartments all serve to make participation possible.
For additional information or assistance, please contact our staff.
On this page:
Assistive Technology
What exactly is Assistive Technology (AT) and who benefits from this type of technology? As defined in the Assistive Technology Act of 1998; AT is any item, piece of equipment, or system, whether acquired commercially, modified or customized, that is commonly used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.
Building and Residential Access
People with disabilities rely on access in their homes and to the businesses they frequent. Accessible entrances and restrooms are important for many, both in their homes and at their favorite restaurants, shops, clinics, and places of employment. The information in this section covers housing access as well as access information for businesses.
- Access FAQ
- Building Access Tools
- Protect Your Business, Remove Barriers
- Contact an Access Specialist
- Housing
- Elevator Shut Down Guide
Digital Accessibility
Digital accessibility is about making your content work with the technologies people use–whether that is a mobile phone or a dedicated assistive device, such as a screen reader. Just as including access ramps and curb cuts in the built environment can remove barriers to access, incorporating accessibility features, such as alternative text and keyboard control, can improve the digital “environment.”
Disability Parking
Currently in Minnesota there are over half a million valid disability parking certificates and plates in circulation. The eligibility requirements are modeled after national disability parking legislation, with a few Minnesota amendments. The information in this section will provide additional information on the “Do’s and Don’ts” of disability parking, along with the laws that define it and how they apply.
Emergency Preparedness
Natural and man-made disasters can range from a summer tornado to a chemical spill from a train derailment. In any event, it is important that we are prepared for emergencies at home, in the community and at work. MCD offers resources on emergency preparedness and can provide written materials and on-site training for individuals with disabilities and their employers.
- Text-to-911
- Emergency Preparedness FAQ
- Emergency Plan for People with Disabilities
- Emergency Preparedness Publications
- Continuity of Operations Planning
- Emergency Preparedness Training
- MCD Emergency Preparedness Position Paper
- Emergency Preparedness Resources
Employment
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 17.9 percent of persons with a disability were employed in 2016. In contrast, the rate for those without a disability was 65.3 percent. The unemployment rate for persons with a disability, at 10.5 percent, was little changed from the previous year, while the rate for those without a disability declined to 4.6 percent.
The State of Minnesota is making a concerted effort to hire individuals with disabilities. To learn more, visit People with Disabilities – Minnesota Careers.
- Employment Fact Sheet
- Employee Rights
- Employer Responsibilities
- MCD Employment Position Paper
- Employment Resources
Laws and Regulations
In order to help you understand your rights and responsibilities, we provide information about laws and regulations that impact people with disabilities.
Publications
The Minnesota Council on Disability (MCD) produces publications to inform people about a variety of disability issues such as employment, disability awareness, and emergency preparedness.
Service Animals
Under the ADA, State and local governments, businesses, and nonprofit organizations that serve the public generally must allow service animals to accompany people with disabilities in all areas of the facility where the public is normally allowed to go.
Snow Removal
MCD reminds you to remove the snow from sidewalks and curb ramps. Sidewalks and curb ramps are lifelines in the community for people with disabilities. Routes covered with snow limit access to groceries, prescriptions, employment, and local gatherings.
Statistics
Disability is a well-studied area of public policy. Here are some statistics reported by prominent researchers in this field.
Training
MCD offers training on a number of topics, and our staff is willing to assist in customized training sessions as well. Below is a list of trainings that are currently available. Most of the sessions are approximately one hour in length. Support materials are included and the sessions are free of charge.
Transportation and Travel
The public transportation system is vital for many people with disabilities, if they are to live independently. In many parts of Minnesota, public transit service is limited or nonexistent, particularly during evening hours and weekends. We also provide you with direct links to disability-related contacts at a variety of travel options, resources, and government agencies.
Voting
Voting is your civil right. Here are some resources for voters with disabilities.
Additional Resources
Here you will find additional information about accessibility resources and organizations.