The third time’s a charm, said Minnesota State Sen. Jim Abeler (R-Anoka), ringleader of an extended battle for emergency funds to sustain disability services through the COVID-19 era.

After shepherding bills through the Senate three times, he finally got his wish in the August special session. The Senate voted unanimously, and the House passed the bill with only one nay vote. Soon after, Governor Tim Walz signed it, allocating $30.4 million in federal relief funds.

“This became about the clients,” said Sen. Abeler, who with a “supporting cast of characters,” in the Senate passed the bills 67-0 on the Senate floor, again and again, waiting for the House to take up the measure so it could go to the governor for his signature.-more-

Read on for comments from Rise and MOHR government affairs leader Lynn Noren

Legislature approves emergency funding for disability providers after months KSTP 5 TV | Marshall Independent | Star Tribune | Redwood Falls Gazette | Southern Minn. | Pioneer Press | St. Cloud Times | Rochester Post Bulletin | MinnPost | Providers react - KSTP 5 | WCCO 4 TV

Hundreds of organizations across the state have found needed help from people with disabilities, and MOHR wants to recognize some of the best.

Nominations are needed. The form is simple. Employers need a connection with a MOHR member service provider.

Nominate an employer today doc | pdf

The Advocating Change Together self-advocacy group is offering its "Mail Your Vote 2020" resources to encourage people with disabilities to vote in the upcoming election. There are virtual training sessions to both participate in and lead. Visit vote.selfadvocacy.org to learn more and please view and share the flier.