Minnesota Legislature
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 18, 2025
House contact: Marlee Schlegel | marlee.schlegel@house.mn.gov | 651-296-9873
Senate contact: Eden Teller | eden.teller@mnsenate.gov | 612-208-6309
Legislators Unveil Minnesotans with Disabilities Act
ST. PAUL, Minn. — On Tuesday, March 18, a bipartisan group of legislators and disability justice advocates unveiled the Minnesotans with Disabilities Act. This bill would enshrine federal protections of reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities into Minnesota law.
Representative Kim Hicks (DFL-Rochester) and Senator Erin Maye Quade (DFL-Apple Valley) released the following statement:
“The disability justice movement has made our country a better place for people of all abilities. This bill reaffirms that in Minnesota, our neighbors, coworkers, classmates and family members will have the opportunities they deserve to fully participate in our schools, workplaces and communities. The Minnesotans with Disabilities Act affirms our dedication to listening to and learning from people with disabilities on our path to a just, equitable future.”
The Minnesotans with Disabilities Act closely mirrors §504 the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which offers strong protections from discrimination based on disability in programs that receive federal funding. The Minnesotans with Disabilities Act will offer the same protections at a state level.
The MDA is a bipartisan effort; Rep. Danny Nadeau (GOP -- Rodgers) has signed on as a co-author of the House bill. “I’m proud to stand alongside and support the heroes who find the strength to persevere despite overwhelming obstacles," said Rep. Nadeau.
The bill awaits introduction in the House and Senate. Video of the press conference is available through Senate Media Services.
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