Minnesota parents decry governor's budget cuts to autism and disability services

In a recent meeting of the Minnesota Legislature's Committee on Human Services, passionate voices rose to address critical concerns surrounding autism services and proposed budget cuts. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as advocates shared their frustrations and hopes for the future of families affected by autism.

Ethel, a mother of an autistic child, expressed her deep disappointment with Governor Walz's budget proposals, highlighting a perceived lack of action from the Department of Human Services (DHS). She emphasized the long wait times for essential oversight and safety measures, urging DHS to take immediate action to train families and agencies on Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention (EIDBI) policies. Ethel criticized the agency for not fulfilling its responsibilities, suggesting that if they are not effectively serving the community, their positions should be reconsidered.

Ethel's testimony underscored a broader sentiment among families: the need for accountability and proactive measures from DHS. She pointed out that despite previous advocacy for background checks and training, the agency has failed to ensure compliance, leaving families feeling unsupported and vulnerable. Her call for better oversight resonated with many in attendance, as she highlighted the urgent need for safety in autism centers.

Following Ethel, Anissa Haji Mohammed, board chair of Mongad Voices and a mother of three autistic children, passionately urged the committee to reconsider the proposed $1.2 billion cuts to disability services. She described waiver programs as lifelines for families, providing essential in-home support and therapy. Anissa criticized the budget's allocation of funds toward artificial intelligence for fraud detection while neglecting direct services for families. She argued that the focus should be on enhancing support rather than policing those already struggling to navigate a complex system.

Both advocates painted a stark picture of the challenges faced by families in Minnesota. They called for a shift in priorities, urging lawmakers to invest in human services that directly benefit children and families rather than diverting resources to technology aimed at detecting fraud. The emotional testimonies highlighted the urgent need for systemic change and greater support for the autism community.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members were left with a clear message: the voices of families affected by autism demand attention and action. The future of these vital services hangs in the balance, and the call for accountability and support will continue to resonate as advocates push for meaningful change in Minnesota's approach to autism services.