November 2025 Edition - Access Press

Autism fraud alleged in scheme

Fraud schemes tied to state programs continue to roil Minnesota disability services nonprofits and the clients they serve.

The latest charges are against Asha Farhan Hassan, age 28. She was charged earlier this fall with wire fraud, for her role in a $14 million autism fraud scheme. Hassan was also charged with participating in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme, for which she received $465,000.

The fraud took place from November 2019 through December 2024. Smart Therapy obtained more than $14 million in reimbursements from the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) and UCare. Hassan split the proceeds with her partners, who haven’t been charged. She also sent hundreds of thousands of dollars abroad, using some funds to purchase real estate in Kenya.

Information from the federal Department of Justice (DOJ) outlined the alleged scheme, in which Hassan and others targeted the Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention (“EIDBI”) benefit. It offers medically necessary intervention services to people under age 21 with autism.

EIDBI covers various treatments designed to help children on the autism spectrum develop social and emotional skills. Specific, detailed requirements must be met before someone receives EIDBI benefits. Those delivering services must also meet several requirements.

Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson said the charges against Hassan are part of an ongoing investigation. “To be clear, this is not an isolated scheme,” he said. “From Feeding Our Future to Housing Stabilization Services and now autism services, these massive fraud schemes form a web that has stolen billions of dollars in taxpayer money. Each case we bring exposes another strand of this network. The challenge is immense, but our work continues.”

Hassan formed and registered Smart Therapy LLC in November 2019, listing herself as sole owner. Others had ownership stakes they didn’t reveal.

She enrolled Smart Therapy as a provider agency in the EIDBI program and in the Federal Child Nutrition Program under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future.

Smart Therapy didn’t meet program requirements, employing unqualified individuals as “behavioral technicians.” Employees were in their teens, with no formal education beyond high school and no treatment training or certifications.

Hassan and her partners needed children with an autism diagnosis and an individual treatment plan, approaching parents in the Somali community. They also paid monthly cash kickback payments to the parents of children who enrolled their children in Smart Therapy to receive autism services, ranging from $300 to $1,500 per month, per child. The parents’ payments were covered through fraudulent billings to Medicaid. DOJ documents state that parents threatened to leave Smart Therapy and take

The nonprofit serves more than 14,000 people each year with an array of services. It has already made several cuts. More may be ahead

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“This isn’t just another appeal. It is a turning

Federal shutdown’s effects are being felt everywhere

A federal government shutdown that began October 1 is being watched carefully by disability community leaders. As the November issue of Access Press went to press late last month, the shutdown was on track to be one of the longest in national history.

The longest-ever shutdown of 35 days happened in President Donald Trump’s first term.

The inability to pass 12 different funding bills meant that several government services and programs went dark at the start of the federal fiscal year. More were expected to follow as the shutdown dragged on.

Some services, such as Social Security, remained open to distribute checks but without staff needed to provide many services.

The federal shutdown is a standoff between the Trump administration and members of Congress over funding, specifically funding for health care. It occurs against a backdrop of other issues as the administration makes sweeping changes in the federal government. Minnesota state officials are keeping residents abreast of developments. The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) notes no immediate impact to Medicaid or

DHS programs. “We continue to evaluate impacts and prepare for a possible longerterm shutdown. We will communicate with partners and clients as the situation evolves,” its website stated.

Updates will be shared at https://mn.gov/dhs/

The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families (CYS) posts updates at https://dcyf.mn.gov/federal-shutdown

CYS received notice from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Services that if the federal government shutdown continues into November, there won’t be enough funds to pay November Supplemental Nutrition

Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. SNAP benefits provide needed food assistance for many low-income households. The Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) may also be affected starting November 1. State officials sought a solution that would allow MFIP cash benefits to continue in November.

One federal change was at least temporarily blocked in mid-October as a federal judge put a temporary halt to a plan that would obliterate the special education office of the U.S. Department of Education plan. Judge Susan Illston of the U.S. District

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AUTISM FRAUD To page 4

Participants played with a bright parachute during an AuSM activity.

Our already unsustainable health care system could become much, much

Our nation’s healthcare system is simply not sustainable. High costs to clients and a system that is woefully inefficient at caring for people, are combined with a complicated and profit-driven mess that only benefits a few. It has been a nightmare for far too long.

Those of us with disabilities are all too aware of what is happening with costs and quality of care. It’s our lived experience, every single day for some of us.

We worry that things could get much, much worse with an inequitable system. That is troubling when you consider that the United States already has lower life expectancy, and higher rates of chronic disease and preventable hospitalizations than in many other countries.

Too many of us cannot afford decent medical care. We deal with health care and insurance systems that are overly complex and frustrating. It seems as if every time we turn around the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is limiting our choices of our products needed for our daily lives and care. It’s just one thing after another.

And then there are ongoing struggles of the insurance industry itself. One visible example is how many elders face higher monthly premiums and fewer options for 2026 Medicare Advantage plans in Minnesota.

The projections are sobering, with a hike of almost 18 percent in the next year for Medicare Advantage plans.

The other shoes have started to drop. UCare has stopped selling such plans statewide. As of 2026 HealthPartners, Humana and UnitedHealthcare will stop selling Medicare Advantage coverage in many of the state’s counties.

Media reports indicate that Minnesota plans’ average monthly premium are projected to increase from $61.51 in 2025 to $72.34 next year. That’s in contrast to national figures stating that the average Medicare Advantage premium is expected to drop from $16.40 to

Those of us with disabilities are all too aware of what is happening with costs and quality

of care. It's our lived experience, every single day for some of us.

We worry that things could get much, much worse with an inequitable system. That is troubling when you consider that the United States already has a lower life expectancy, and higher rates of chronic disease and preventable hospitalizations than in many other countries.

$14 per month.

Our state is different because more people opt to pay for such plans. When it’s considered that about 653,000 Minnesotans seek such plans, that is a huge number of people affected.

The prevalence of disability increases as we age so this kind of a shift in the market is troubling for the disability community as a whole.

The Medicare Advantage controversy is on top of rising healthcare rates as a whole. So what is affecting the rise in rates, which is the highest seen since 2017? Many factors are at play, including the anticipated end of year sunset of Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies. Increased costs for drugs and services, inflation and even expensive new treatments play a role. So do workforce shortages and tariffs on medical supplies. It’s a perfect storm of terrible factors.

Loss of ACA subsidies could be devastating. Too many people, including people with disabilities, will simply be unable to afford

HISTORY NOTE

insurance.

We especially worry about the devastating effects on Medicaid. Some places are already making cuts that are adversely affecting the lives of their disability communities.

Too many people face potential loss of Medicaid and Medicare thanks to the recent passage of the “Big Beautiful Bill” and its negative impacts on health care programs.

The federal government shutdown threw in more complications. ACA enrollment was to start November 1. We worry about the impact of even a brief shutdown on trying to sort out the premium cost issues

We at Access Press hear from many people who are numb and terrified at the prospects of losing their health care. Others tell us that free or reduced price programs for needed medications are ending.

A friend who lives with disabilities and chronic conditions recently said:

“I must tell you that for several months I had to rely on the ACA subsidies in order to have

Veterans and their allies championed the barrier-free movement

People with disabilities celebrated 35 years of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) this past summer. The ADA is certainly a milestone in improving physical access. Although more needs to be done with access, no one can dismiss the ADA’s sweeping impacts.

We also must remember that a major world event decades earlier also helped shape physical access. The focus then was initially on disabled veterans.

The drive for better access became more prominent as World War II drew to a close in 1945. Veterans came home with an array of physical and psychological disabilities.

World War II histories are unable to place a number on how many veterans came home with physical disabilities. The numbers were in at least the hundreds of thousands, and were significant enough to demand action.

The barrier-free movement was launched as disabled veterans came back to civilian life.

The Veterans’ Administration played a

key role as its staff worked to meet the needs of disabled veterans. Its staff joined forces with an array of groups to get the movement started.

One group is what we know today as the national Easter Seals Society. What was then the National Society for Crippled Children expanded its mission to provide comprehensive services tailored specifically to adults including veterans re-entering civilian life. An organizational history tells us that programs addressed employment opportunities, physical rehabilitation, and community reintegration, offering critical support to people who had dedicated themselves to national service.

In July 1949 the President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped (PCEH) was originally established, under the guidance of President Harry S. Truman. The committee’s function was to “facilitate employment opportunities for the handicapped and to provide information to employers, unions, organizations and the

public about handicapped needs,” according to its charge. That tied to making places barrier-free.

The committee, which has since had its work folded into that of other groups, promoted employment for people with disabilities and other causes along with the barrier-free movement. One leader was Harold Russell, the disabled veteran who starred in the postwar movie The Best Years of Our Lives.

Many, many people took part in the barrier-free movement. A recent Smithsonian Institute exhibit drew attention to the movement and how that spawned efforts toward universal design. “Access! Everyone! Everywhere!” outlined the barrier-free movement of the late 1940s and 1950s and the demands by disabled veterans and others to be able to fully participate in society. That launched the push for universal design, the design of buildings, products or environments to make them accessible to

health insurance. It saved my life. Without it I would not have been able to afford insulin nor the antibiotics I received during a hospital stay fighting a staph infection that could have taken my leg. I honestly believe I would be dead had that subsidy not been provided.”

He added, “Our health system is broken. I hope you are fortunate to be able to receive the care you need. Please recognize others won’t be able to under the ‘Big Ugly Bill’ that will push millions off their health insurance. People will die. I’m certain of that. The fight is very personal. If the current administration gets its way, I fully expect to lose my Medicare coverage. I WILL die within a year of that happening.”

His plea? “I’m not asking for anything from any of you. Please, just think about what may happen to your friends, neighbors, or even your family.”

We hope our elected leaders also keep everyone affected in their thoughts.

people, regardless of age, disability or other factors.

The exhibit featured Elaine Ostroff, a leader in the universal design movement. She is an American designer and educator based in Massachusetts. She has advocated on behalf of people with disabilities throughout her career. The exhibit description notes that her work has improved the lives of people with disabilities—especially children—and the general population as well.

Ostroff and many other disability rights activists starting from 80 years ago, are truly among our heroes of the ADA.

The History Note is a monthly column produced in cooperation with the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities.

Past History Notes and other disability history may be found at https://mn.gov/mnddc

EDITORIAL: Editorial submissions and news releases on topics of interest to persons with disabilities, or persons serving those with disabilities, are welcomed. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. Editorial material and advertising do not necessarily reflect the view of the editor/ publisher of Access Press.

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INQUIRIES

Questions about Long COVID ‘brain fog’ could be lifted by latest research

Life with Long COVID and pre-existing disabilities is continually being informed by research underway around the world. A recent study from Japan provides new information about the impacts of one aspect of Long COVID.

One challenging symptom of Long COVID is described as “brain fog.” It is when people have difficulty organizing their thoughts, become forgetful or deal with other cognitive issues. For people already trying to manage an array of disabilities, brain fog can make that much more difficult.

For people already living with cognitive disabilities, brain fog can compound those disabilities and make matters worse.

Some Long COVID patients have had to change or give up employment due to ongoing brain fog and its effects.

Even though years have passed since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the effects of infection with SARS-CoV-2 are not completely understood, according to Science Daily. This is especially true for Long COVID, a chronic condition that can develop after COVID-19. It causes a variety of lasting symptoms.

Science Daily tells us that among the most common and debilitating of these is cognitive impairment, often referred to as brain fog, which affects more than 80 percent of people with Long COVID. Given the hundreds of millions of global cases, Long COVID represents a massive public health and socioeconomic challenge, as it severely impacts people's ability to work and perform daily activities.

The underlying causes of Long COVID and brain fog remain poorly understood, according to Science Daily and other medical and scientific sources. Some imaging studies have shown patients to have some structural changes in the

brain. But scientists until recently have been unable to pinpoint the molecular dysfunctions responsible for the cognitive symptoms.

The Japanese researchers found that Long COVID brain fog is tied to an excessive type of activity in the brain, revealed through groundbreaking imaging. The discovery may lead to accurate diagnoses and new treatments that could restore cognitive function.

A research team led by Professor Takuya Takahashi from the Graduate School of Medicine at Yokohama City University, Japan, recently made the significant breakthrough in understanding the cause of Long COVID brain fog. Their research paper was first published

the researchers dug into past work including studies of disabilities to help lead to their new conclusions. The researchers hypothesized that patients with brain fog might exhibit disrupted expression of AMPA receptors (AMPARS) found in the central nervous system. They drew on past research into psychiatric and neurological disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and dementia and then used a form of positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to directly visualize and quantify the density of AMPARs in the living human brain.

The researchers compared imaging data

from 30 patients with Long COVID to 80 healthy individuals. The researchers found a notable and widespread increase in the density of AMPARs across the brains of patients. This elevated receptor density was directly correlated with the severity of the patient’s cognitive impairment, suggesting a clear link between these molecular changes and the symptoms. Additionally, the concentrations of various inflammatory markers were also correlated with AMPAR levels. This indicates a possible interaction between inflammation and receptor expression.

While further efforts will be needed to find a definitive solution for Long COVID, this work is a promising step in the right direction. “Our findings clearly demonstrate that Long COVID brain fog should be recognized as a legitimate clinical condition. This could encourage the healthcare industry to accelerate the development of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for this disorder,” said Takahashi.

In summary, the team's findings could be used to address questions about the biological basis of Long COVID brain fog. It’s possible that further studies could pave the way for novel diagnostic tools and effective therapies for patients suffering from this condition

Several sources have covered this research. One is Science Daily at https://www.sciencedaily. com/releases/2025/10/251006051127.htm

Access Press provides coverage of COVID issues with support from the Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL). Learn more about MCIL at https://mcil-mn.org/

This activity is made possible by a grant from the Long COVID Program of the Minnesota Department of Health.

Newest COVID-19 vaccine recommendations provide guidance from MDH

Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is endorsing existing COVID-19 vaccine recommendations from professional medical associations for the 2025-26 vaccine. MDH is encouraging the public and providers to look to these recommendations for the best sciencebased guidance on immunizations at this time.

Focusing on recommendations from these professional medical associations is a departure from prior years when the agency primarily relied on promoting federal vaccine recommendations. MDH is making this change to provide recommendations for Minnesotans seeking science-based decisionmaking guidance.

“We’re following the science, and the science is clear. COVID-19 vaccines prevent severe illness and death for people of all ages, and we want to ensure access to vaccination,” said Minnesota Health Commissioner Dr. Brooke Cunningham.

“This is a unique moment where vaccine information from federal health leaders leaves important information gaps for Minnesotans. These independent medical

associations have all looked at the science and concluded that COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective and important for people across the lifespan.”

MDH is endorsing the updated COVID-19 vaccine recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). These associations developed guidance recommending that all people over 6 months old should have the option to receive the COVID-19 vaccine without additional barriers. There is a strong recommendation for children under 2 years, pregnant women, children and adults with high-risk conditions, and adults age 65 and older to get vaccinated. More detailed information about the recommendations can be found on COVID-19 Vaccine Access for Minnesotans.

“Vaccines are one of the greatest public health achievements in modern medicine and help protect people of all ages,” said MDH Medical Director and State Epidemiologist Dr. Ruth

Lynfield. “We encourage people to talk to their health care provider about all of the vaccines that are recommended for them, especially flu, RSV and COVID-19 vaccines, right now as we enter the respiratory disease season.”

Concerns over possible moves by the federal administration to limit access to vaccines, particularly COVID-19 vaccine, prompted an executive order from Governor Walz in September directing MDH to provide clear guidelines for providers and the public and ensure access to vaccines.

Part of ensuring access to vaccines includes removing barriers to the places people can get vaccinated. In line with that directive, MDH has issued a standing order/protocol that empowers pharmacists to offer COVID-19 vaccination broadly, helping ensure that people who want the protection of immunization are able to receive it.

Additionally, the executive order directs MDH and the Minnesota Department of Commerce to convene conversations with the state’s health plans, providers, and professional associations to work to ensure ongoing coverage and access.

New COVID variant is on the move in the Upper Midwest

The latest COVID-19 variant known as XFG, nicknamed Stratus, continues to spread throughout the United States. One study indicates that the XFG variant is spreading, including in Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota and North Dakota. The virus drove a summer spike in cases and continues to spread. Stratus accounted for an estimated 79 percent of COVID cases in the U.S. during early September, far surpassing the NB.1.8.1 Nimbus variant, according to the latest data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Stratus has been around in Southeast Asia since January of this year, and came to the

United States around the spring,” said Dr. Magdalena Sobieszczyk, chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases at New York-Presbyterian/ Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Her information appears on the Health Matters website. “We’ve been seeing an uptick since July, predominantly because it’s a variant that can be transmitted easily and people were travelling a lot more, vaccine uptake has not been very high, and now many people are returning to school and their regular routines.”

The good news is that simple measures (like vaccination, washing hands and wearing a mask) can help protect yourself and others from COVID this fall and winter.

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“Typically, respiratory viruses peak in the winter, but with coronavirus we’re also seeing it in the warm weather months,” said Sobieszczyk. “I think we will see more cases, but I don’t expect a surge in hospitalizations. We have many ways to prevent it and protect ourselves, we just have to use them.”

XFG, or Stratus, comes from the Omicron family and is a hybrid of two existing Omicron subvariants, LF.7 and LP 8.1.2. Its mixture of genetic information helps it bind a little bit tighter to the cells in the body and cause infection that may make it more transmissible.

Like the other variants, it has unique

The 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccines are arriving at clinics and pharmacies across Minnesota, with supply expected to increase over the coming weeks. For people interested in getting COVID-19 vaccines, MDH recommends: Calling your clinic or pharmacy to confirm vaccine availability, especially for children as pediatric vaccine may take longer to arrive at clinics. Pharmacists can vaccinate children age 3 years and older. Calling your insurance provider if you have questions about coverage.

Minnesota operates two programs that provide certain vaccines at low or no cost to children and adults who do not have insurance or whose insurance does not cover the cost of vaccines. Learn more at Free or Low-Cost Shots for Children and Vaccination Clinics Serving Uninsured and Underinsured Adults.

• Asking your health care provider about other vaccines you or your family may need, such as flu or RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccines. COVID-19 vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines.

mutations which improve its ability to evade COVID-19 antibodies from prior infection or from prior vaccination.

A sore throat seems to be the predominant symptom, but overall, Stratus symptoms are not any different than those of other COVID variants.

So far, XFG has not caused severe disease when compared to other variants.

The currently available COVID-19 vaccine updated for the 2025-2026 season targets a strain called LP.8.1, which is closely related to the predominant strain. Talk to your health care professionals about vaccines.

What do federal Medicaid changes mean for people with disabilities like me?

October 1 in Brain Communications. Interestingly,

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Readers tell us ‘Why I support Access Press.’ How about you?

by Lynda Milne Access Press Board President

There’s no shortage of places to turn for dire news or funding shortages. We don’t need to tell you that all nonprofits are facing hard times. You know, too, that hard times at nonprofits mean that the people they serve must experience even rougher times. Like all of us, you have a long list of groups and organizations in your life that depend on your support. We here at Access Press hope to figure meaningfully on that list. Why? We’d like to share some reasons with you in these quotes from readers and longtime supporters.

I support Access Press because knowledge is power, and people with disabilities have grown and grown in their power and in their ability to advocate in all the public forums that need to hear what is needed by people with disabilities. (AH)

I’ve supported Access Press for 25 years

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point. Without your support, Minnesota’s oldest autism organization—and the lifeline it provides – could be forced to shutter many of its essential programs. But together, we can protect what matters most: the safety, dignity, and inclusion of autistic people in our state.”

The growing need for services was also cited. “The need for mental health services for autistic individuals and families is at an all-time high, and yet, insurance shortfalls leave people without access and incentivize most providers to turn autistic patients away from services.”

Supporters are urged to donate, share their stories, seek support through workplace giving programs or volunteer. Go to www.ausm.org AuSM faces a unique and challenging set of circumstances, said Ellie Wilson, executive director. The challenges come at a time when more people need autism-related services throughout their lives. One in 28 Minnesotans is on the autism spectrum.

“It’s an incredibly difficult situation,” said Wilson. Funding sources have changed. County, state and federal grants that the organization long relied on are gone.

AUTISM FRAUD

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their children to other autism centers if they did not get paid higher kickbacks. Several larger families left Smart Therapy after being offered larger kickbacks by other autism centers. Hassan and her partners submitted millions

SHUTDOWN

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Court for the Northern District of California blocked the reductions in Education and several other federal departments, in the wake of a lawsuit filed by employee groups. Trump has long targeted education for elimination.

Disability Scoop reports that among the Education Department’s hardest hit divisions under the plan was the Office of Special Education Programs, or OSEP, which administers the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The office, which had about 90 staffers at the start of the year, was cut down to no more than a handful. With so few workers, disability advocates

because I know what an unimaginable resource this paper is, for the community it supports and that in turn supports it. (LM) I work at a disability association and the information I get from Access Press helps me give information to my group, and it helps me to know what I need to look out for, and to know how do I support whatever action we need to take at the capitol. We need to up our steps to make sure our equal rights are available for everybody. (CF)

After visiting the last awards ceremony, I realized what an awesome resource Access Press actually is, being a paper for people with disabilities. I also think of it as a place where I can publish some things I want to develop for the community. (DO)

I just went to my 50th high school reunion, and it was amazing because more than half of my classmates had joined me in the status of being disabled. There are just so many rich possibilities of journalism that

The Trump administration’s work to dissolve the federal Department of Education and drop special education services affects funding and resources. Federal efforts to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs also autism programs and their clients. That greatly affect employment opportunities.

Another key change is with Medicaid and how recipients can use that funding in their budgets.Wilson said there are already changes to how disabled people and their families are allowed to use their allocated disability budgets, funded by Medicaid. That’s even true of programs and services that have been covered for by waivers in the past.

When services cannot be reimbursed through Medicaid, clients must do without and that impacts AuSM, Wilson said.

Another obstacle is perceptions of autism, fed in large part by actions at the federal level. Unsubstantiated declarations of causes of autism feed into negative stereotypes and complicate the work of AuSM, causing clients to feel as if their lives have no value.

Fraud in some autism programs creates negative effects for all problems, Wilson said.

“We’re doing everything we can” to address the shortfall, said Wilson. AuSM is applying

of dollars’ worth of claims for Medicaid reimbursement on behalf of Smart Therapy. Many claims were fraudulently inflated, were billed without providers’ knowledge, and were for services that were not actually provided. Hassan submitted claims seeking reimbursement for the maximum number

said there is no way that the Education Department could fulfill its responsibilities under IDEA, the federal law that guarantees eligible children with disabilities a free, appropriate public education.

Disability Scoop reports that if OSEP is cut back to just a few staffers, there could be big implications for students with disabilities. IDEA could be implemented inconsistently across states and potentially impact a student’s ability to receive a proper education.

Chad Rummel, executive director of the Council for Exceptional Children, said he was happy to hear that the layoffs were blocked, but told Disability Scoop that the operative word is “temporary.”

“There are lots of opportunities for this still to move forward and erode the work of

can serve so many people—it covers, to use that fancy word, intersectionality. I have so many visions for what we do, and am going to increase my donation. (JC) What I’ve always loved about Access Press and why I support it is because it’s not just for the community, but it’s by the community. (SA)

Access Press has brought you news of the disability community for 35 years. That’s no small accomplishment at a time when newspapers are disappearing, and nonprofit newspapers have become almost nonexistent.

Northwestern University’s Local News Initiative reports that in the last 20 years, more than 3,200 papers have ceased to exist. Eighty percent of the remaining 5,600 newspapers are weeklies, not dailies. The LNI also tracks online news outlets and public news organizations, but finds that their numbers aren’t increasing at a rate that

for grants through foundations it has never worked with before. But with many other nonprofits in the same situation, competition for those dollars has increased and AuSM is shut out.

AuSM has already taken steps in recent years to address budgetary issues. Next in Nonprofits is working with AuSM to support grant writing efforts.

Two comprehensive staff reductions have been made since 2023 at AuSM. Office space has been downsized, with more employees working remotely. Programs were reviewed on a cost basis, to reflect true costs and ensure program sustainability and reflect true program cost. Unsustainable programs were redesigned or dropped.

What is happening to AuSM is an example of the difficulties many nonprofits face. Some programs around the nation are merging or slashing offering and staff positions, while others are closing their doors.

The Minnesota Council on Nonprofits (MCN) is closely tracking trends and has recently published two reports on the state’s nonprofits economy, along with an overview of the status of nonprofits and their work.

2025 continues to bring tough conditions

of hours permitted by Medicaid for a given treatment or service given to a particular client, when the client only received a fraction of those treatment hours, if any treatment was provided at all on that day.

Hassan also used Smart Therapy to engage in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme. She

developmentally disabled adults

IDEA. Until we see special education staff back in place at OSEP, teachers and parents of children with disabilities should be concerned,” he said.

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compensates for the numbers of newspapers that have disappeared. The focus of the news is less and less local, more and more focused on generic content in large urban areas. Access Press has been here to specifically serve the interests of Minnesotans with disabilities, their allies and service organizations for more than a third of a century. We want to continue to make your voices heard and to advocate for your interests. And we’re going to develop new ways to get your input, to bring you the coverage you want in a timely way and via new media.

Please consider a special donation in these last months of 2025 when your giving is doubled by matching funds. We’d welcome a one-time gift or a monthly donation. Donate here, and we’ll gratefully and ever more creatively bring you the news this community has relied on since 1990.

for nonprofits, according to MCN. A record 82 percent of respondents reported that their business expenses have increased. While 53 percent of respondents reported a decrease in grants from foundations, 46 percent of respondents reported a decrease in government funds, and 35 percent of respondents reported a decrease in individual giving.

Navigating uncertainty within their organization and the broader community are concerns MCN is hearing. Many organizations discussed the impact of navigating uncertainty due to recent federal actions, including funding disruptions, attacks on DEI, and increased ICE raids. Due to the chaotic landscape, 50 percent of respondents are reporting a decrease in staff morale. MCN also cites mounting tensions on government oversight of the nonprofit sector. Some respondents stated their organization has been negatively impacted because of the Feeding Our Future fraud case and actions taken by the legislation.

Read the reports at:

https://minnesotanonprofits.org/2025-currentconditions-nonprofit-sector https://minnesotanonprofits.org/2025-mner

inflated the claims over time, at one point claiming to be serving approximately 1,200 meals per day to children, seven days per week. Between 2020 and 2021, Hassan claimed to have served nearly 200,000 meals, for which she claimed to be entitled to approximately $465,000 in federal dollars.

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the shutdown “confirms” that the “federal Department of Education is unnecessary, and we should return education to the states.”

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If the layoffs are allowed to proceed, disability advocates noted that IDEA remains in place. But without adequate staff, it’s not clear what that would mean and how special education students would actually be served. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said in a statement on social media that

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“The department has taken additional steps to better reach American students and families and root out the education bureaucracy that has burdened states and educators with unnecessary oversight,” she said.

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ICI celebrates 40 years worth of accomplishments while looking ahead

by Janet Stwart

The University of Minnesota Institute on Community Integration is celebrating four decades of service to Minnesotans with disabilities. In a stirring address commemorating the Institute on Community Integration’s 40th anniversary October 15, Special Olympics Chairman Tim Shriver urged disability advocates to deepen their commitment to inclusion amid funding cuts and other challenges.

U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar (via video) and Minnesota First Lady Gwen Walz were among several other speakers for the October 15 event, which drew more than 350 attendees to McNamara Alumni Center at the University of Minnesota. ICI, part of the University’s College of Education and Human Development, is a designated University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, a network of research and training centers created under a federal disability law signed by President John F. Kennedy in 1963. ICI began in 1985.

Shriver, a nephew of President Jon F. Kennedy, invoked the legacy of his family’s decision not to institutionalize the president’s sister Rosemary as a young child, as many families with children with intellectual and other developmental disabilities (IDD) were advised to do well into the middle of the 20th century. That single act of resistance, which led to the founding of Special Olympics and helped influence public attitudes about disability, is as relevant today as it was then, Shriver said.

“The country could learn a lot from this movement,” he said. “When we changed the way we treated each other, we got a different outcome. We had people locked up for life and treated as subhuman, and we got horrible outcomes. We started to treat them with dignity and hope and possibility and independence, and we got fantastic outcomes.”

Shriver believes that his uncle learned as much about how to be a political leader from Rosemary as he did from the history lessons of other presidents: that when one gives themselves unselfishly to another human being, they get their best selves back.

Shriver called this a moment requiring courage: “Acts of inclusion are acts of

resistance… You came to this work because you’re willing to make acts of resistance. Now is your time.”

He praised ICI for shaping generations of educators and advocates.

“[ICI] has played such an important role in the education of a generation of special educators like me … I am really grateful and honored to be part of a gathering of this importance, and for an institution of this importance.”

ICI Director Amy Hewitt, University President Emeritus Robert Bruininks, CEHD Dean Michael Rodriguez and Ellie Wilson of the Autism Society of Minnesota also spoke at the event, along with video messages from other distinguished friends of the institute. Bruininks is founding director of ICI.

Unveiling a visual disability history timeline created to mark the 40th anniversary, Hewitt spoke about the deinstitutionalization of people with IDD, calling it one of the greatest public policy successes of our time. She also noted that this hard-won progress is fragile.

“It shows that it’s possible when values meet vision and when bipartisan leadership and community action align. But progress doesn’t guarantee permanence,” she said, citing the dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education, service provider agency closures, and growing waitlists for services. “Youth and adults with disabilities are ending up where we promised they’d never return—hospital wards, jails, emergency rooms, institutions, and segregated schools.”

Hewitt challenged leaders to raise expectations.

“We must be bold enough to totally rethink our systems. We continue to focus on the individual and their needs, but has this focus resulted in letting the community off the hook? What are we doing to change the

Developmental Disabilities Act network in Minnesota, which also includes the Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities and the Minnesota Disability Law Center.

“Minnesotans need you now more than ever,” Walz said. “We must support our mutual commitment to transform lives and strengthen Minnesota communities. This idea of belonging and opportunity and value and inclusion, this is not a destination; it is a daily practice.”

In her video remarks, Klobuchar praised ICI’s efforts to support people with disabilities to move from subminimum wage workshops to competitive jobs in the community. She vowed to continue fighting recent Medicaid cuts and expand her advocacy for ABLE accounts that help people with disabilities save for their futures.

During its 40 years, the institute has contributed significantly to the deinstitutionalization, community living and self-determination of people with IDD. Its Residential Information Systems Project is one of three longitudinal data projects of national significance. It serves as the Minnesota site of the Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, which tracks autism prevalence. Its Check & Connect intervention model for dropout prevention has been used in all 50 states and throughout the world.

Other programs address critical workforce shortages in skilled professionals who support people with IDD, and a multi-disciplinary fellowship program in neurodevelopmental disabilities that spans more than 16 disciplines across the University, among dozens of other ongoing projects. It is also home to the National Center on Educational Outcomes, a leader in inclusive education.

Wilson thanked ICI for its work and for its partnerships across the disability field.

“Thank you, ICI, for being a generator in the dark. Thank you for your deep roots and firm ground, and for your insistence on dignity and inclusion. Thank you for your hard work, for your vision, your moral courage, and for being the backbone of this community, a community that has learned

Minnesota First Lady Gwen Walz, ICI Director Amy Hewitt and Tim Shriver enjoyed the event.

ICI

PEOPLE AND PLACES

Marcus Schmit brings public policy skills and more to NAMI Minnesota

Marcus Schmit is the new executive director for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Minnesota. Schmidt assumed his new role October 27. He succeeds Sue Abderholden, who has led the organization for more than 20 years and whose visionary advocacy elevated NAMI Minnesota into one of the state’s most trusted voices for mental health.

“It is an incredible honor to follow Sue Abderholden and to help guide NAMI Minnesota at such a critical time,” Schmit said. “NAMI plays a unique and vital role in Minnesota—there is no substitute for its education, support, and advocacy for people living with mental illness and their loved ones. I am eager to listen, learn, and continue advancing this mission in partnership with our team, board of directors, members, and communities statewide.”

Schmit come to NAMI Minnesota from Hearth Connection, where he served as executive director. Hearth Connection is a St. Paul-based nonprofit focused on ending long-term homelessness through supportive housing and systems partnerships.

At Hearth Connection, he expanded philanthropic revenue, strengthened the organization’s focus on legislative advocacy and systems change, and fostered partnerships across housing, health care, and human services—areas that closely intersect with mental illness. Throughout his career, Schmit has secured major public funding, led statewide advocacy campaigns, managed complex budgets, and guided organizations through periods of transformation.

Colleagues point to his ability to bring people together across sectors, advance equity in tangible ways, and translate policy into meaningful community impact.

Schmit has more than two decades’ experience in nonprofit and public sector leadership. He has a strong track record in public policy, systems change, and coalitionbuilding. His professional experiences include serving as assistant commissioner at the Minnesota Department of Corrections, director of advocacy at Second Harvest Heartland, and in senior roles with MNsure and for Congressman Tim Walz.

Schmit holds a bachelor of arts degree from Gustavus Adolphus College, a master’s degree in public policy from the University of Minnesota Humphrey School of Public Affairs, and was involved in the Itasca Project between the University of Minnesota and Harvard University/Harvard Business School.

The NAMI Minnesota Board and consultants conducted an extensive search for Abderholden’s successor.

“Marcus brings deep policy expertise, proven nonprofit leadership, and a personal commitment to advancing Minnesota’s mental health system,” said Jessica Gourneau, president of the NAMI Minnesota Board of Directors. “We are excited for the vision, energy, and relationships he will bring to build on Sue’s extraordinary legacy and lead NAMI Minnesota into its next chapter.”

Abderholden published a farewell message:

After 24 years, it is hard to say goodbye. Together – board, staff, members, and volunteers – we have grown our movement. Our core mission continues stronger than ever due to people’s passion. People willing to educate others, share their stories to change public attitudes, organize for change, and connect with others so they know they are not alone.

Over time, we have significantly expanded our programming to include suicide prevention, a focus on employment, psychosis, older adults, teens, culturally diverse communities, physical health, and so much more. NAMI Minnesota is leading the movement to build a mental health system.

I feel honored to have had the opportunity to listen to and lead our grassroots to make meaningful changes at the legislature. NAMI Minnesota’s work is rooted in those who had the courage to come forward to share their stories on a wide range of issues, such as CADI waivers, crisis services, suicide, solitary confinement, and postpartum depression. Their stories had a tremendous impact. This work was not done in isolation. I have greatly appreciated the partnerships and collaborations that have developed over the years through the Mental Health Legislation Network, agency commissioners, department staff, legislators and legislative staff. Working with so many of these groups on task forces and commissions has reinforced the idea that the best solutions and legislation come from engaging all sides and working together to create solutions.

I want to thank the media for their work, for shining a light on the crucial issues facing our mental health community. And of course, the foundations and donors who make NAMI’s work possible.

As I look back at my career, it’s always been about the people. The people who believed in creating change, the people who held on to hope, the people who simply never gave up. People know that I have a long list of favorite quotes. But the one that rings true for me now is that we are here to plant the seeds of trees under whose shade we do not expect to sit. Please continue to tend to these seeds and carry on NAMI’s mission. My work here is done. Thank you.

Retired Rise CEO Noren is MOHR Legacy Leader Award winner

Longtime Rise CEO Lynn Noren is the 2025 MOHR Legacy Leader Award honoree, a salute to a recent retiree who left a lasting mark on the disability community through outstanding service and leadership.

Noren retired in December 2024 after a remarkable 46-year career. Her legacy is deeply rooted in Rise and in the broader evolution of disability services statewide. She helped shape Rise into what it is today and played a key role in guiding MOHR through growth and transformation.

“I’m very honored by the award,” she said. “Anything I ever accomplished, I accomplished with other people.”

As a high school student, Noren noticed how peers with disabilities were often left out. Those early observations, and time spent at St. Mary’s Junior College and Hospital and a special education associates program, sparked a lifelong dedication to inclusive, person-centered care.

In 1979 at age 19, Noren joined Rise through the St. Mary’s special education program internship. Minnesota was shifting from institutional care to community-based services. Noren became part of a small, visionary group committed to finding new and better ways to support people with disabilities as valued members within society.

“It was person-centered support before the term was coined,” Noren said. “We were all in it together, trying to learn what to do.” Noren points to the people themselves when asked what inspired her. “Every single person - we were always amazed. People live far beyond the expectations you set for them.”

In the 1990s, the state began to close institutions. As responsibilities shifted to community providers, Rise rose to the occasion, opening programs to assist

Matter is honored by MSHSL

Since 1991, the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) has honored those who serve the state’s high school students. Twelve more honorees for the MSHSL Hall of Fame have been announced. One is a familiar name to Minnesota prep athletes, coaches and fans involved in adapted sports tournaments.

The 2026 honorees include Rich Matter, in the administrator category. For more than 25 years, he served as the tournament director for adapted athletics. He also oversaw alpine skiing, Nordic ski racing and lacrosse. Matter served as the MSHSL’s Director of Finance for nearly 33 years before his recent retirement. Behind his leadership, the League delivered programming, services and support to the more than 500 Member Schools. He also served on the MSHSL Foundation, a group that directed resources back to member schools.

and community living. Noren was part of that work.

She became president and CEO of Rise in 2013. Her steady, compassionate leadership guided the organization through major transitions, including the RISE-ESR merger and the COVID-10 pandemic.

Noren has enjoyed MOHR’s collaborative spirit and the challenges of working closely with state systems. “Every single thing we do is impacted by the actions of the legislature whether it’s policy, licensing rules, or funding,” she said.

She chaired MOHR’s Government Affairs Committee and was on the Disability Waiver Rate System Advisory Committee. She brought day services providers into

Matter is one of several honorees announced in October. Other winners are in the categories of fine arts, officials, coaches, athletes, administrators and people who are considered to be contributors to prep activities in Minnesota.

The 12 newcomers will join 245 past awardees. The Hall of Fame induction ceremony is scheduled for April 19, 2026, at the InterContinental Hotel in downtown St. Paul. Name change for elder resource

For nearly 30 years, the Senior LinkAge Line has been Minnesota’s primary aging resource connecting older Minnesotans, caregivers and others to the services and supports they need.

To reflect the continued growth of this critical work and to better connect with the people served, the resource has been rebranded to Minnesota Aging Pathways. PEOPLE AND PLACES To page 9

legislative conversations, fought for improved rates for waiver services, testified before Senate and House committees, coordinated with lobbyists, and spent countless hours advocating for disability service providers statewide.

Noren is proud of the positive impact she helped bring about. “Our work is to create the best life for the people that we support. Along the way, I got to live my best life too.”

Her advice to emerging leaders? “Be

curious.” Disability services professionals should keep learning, to understand systematic details and to stay closely connected to the lives of people served. Question the status quo, experiment with new approaches, and embrace mistakes as part of meaningful change are other advice. “The only way things really change is by trying new ideas,” she said. “Do what’s best for the people you support, and always be open to learning.”

Marcus Schmit

Lynn Noren

MOHR

PEOPLE AND PLACES

The 2025-2026 Partners in Policymaking class sessions are underway. The current class brings together 34 dedicated disability advocates from around the state.

Class participants will receive eight months of leadership training to prepare them with the skills they need to effectively influence disability policy. Many have gone on to leadership positions in the disability community.

Participants have already completed three of the eight weekends. Topics they study during the course are disability history, inclusive education, competitive integrated employment, person-centered planning, self-determination, assistive technology, and effective communications and meetings.

During the course participants prepare their own testimony and visit with state and federal legislators to share their stories.

The program brings together a diverse group of self-advocates and family members from across Minnesota, each contributing unique perspectives shaped by their communities and experiences. Together, they represent the voices of individuals and families working toward inclusion, access, and meaningful participation in all areas of life.

Class members are selected through an application process. This year’s class members are Lumi Akintunde, Plymouth; Douglas Anderson, Coon Rapids; Amber Bisbee, Little Falls; Luke Bourdeaux, Ramsey; Drake Burke, St. Louis Park; Ethan Bussiere, Hopkins; Prince Cole, Blaine; Jenny Cook, Willernie; Sean Craven, Minneapolis; Addie Davis, Spring Lake Park; Jonathan Fettig, Mankato; Courtney Ford, Burnsville; Jessica Gibson, Detroit Lakes; Lauren Gilkerson, North Branch; KiloMarie Granda, Morris; Anisa HagiMohamed, Bloomington; Kari Hanson, South Haven; Najwa Howard, St. Louis Park; Mona Hussein, Blaine; Krista Jacobson, Brooklyn Park; Natasha Lafriniere, Lengby; Adam Lyon, Richfield; Zeinab Mohamed,

Minneapolis; Jenny Svihel, Sauk Rapids; Greta Wentzlaff, Bloomington and Annika Wulf, Mound

Partners in Policymaking was started in Minnesota in 1987. It has been described as a groundbreaking concept which combines lived experience expertise with invaluable learning about effectively communicating with officials at all levels of government. About 1,200 Minnesotans have graduated from the program. Self-advocates bring leadership rooted

Seven Minnesota organizations will use state grant funds to increase awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, promote early diagnosis and connect caregivers to resources. Nearly $750,000 in grants are going out this fall, awarded by the Minnesota Board on Aging.

“Dementia is not a normal part of aging,” said Maureen Schneider, chair of the Minnesota Board on Aging. “Timely diagnosis that uses the right tools is key to treatment and support and can create better outcomes for people with memory loss and the family members and friends who care for them.”

Grantees and their projects are: African American Child Wellness Institute (AACWI), Plymouth, $149,000. As part of its effort to improve access to culturally specific dementia education and services, AACWI will collaborate with McFarlane Media on a public awareness campaign and screening tools validated in multi-ethnic communities. The institute will incorporate its African-Centered Wellness

Model into workshops to support family and friends caregiving for people with memory loss.

ElderCircle, Grand Rapids, $134,833. IN a county where more than a quarter of residents are age 65 or older, ElderCircle is implementing a proactive approach to addressing dementia-related needs among hard-to-reach, low- to moderate-income people and their caregivers. Activities will include access to dementia screening with formal referral pathways, respite services and expanded caregiving education from certified caregiver consultants.

Faith Community Nurse Network of the Greater Twin Cities, Shoreview, $145,000. Grant funds will support dementia awareness education, screening and prevention as well as caregiver support to Minnesotans who lack access or trust in more traditional health care settings. Reaching older adults who are deaf, deafblind or have profound hearing loss is a special focus, given the correlation established between hearing loss and dementia.

priorities reflect the real experiences and aspirations of people with disabilities.

Rural self-advocates add an especially important perspectives grounded in smalltown and regional life. They highlight both the creativity and the challenges that come with accessing services and building community connections in areas where resources may be spread thin, ensuring that rural experiences remain central to the program’s goals.

Family members share their experiences

Jewish Family and Children's Service of Minneapolis, Minneapolis, $85,000. Delivering stabilizing dementia support services for people with memory loss in Minneapolis and the west metro is the focus of this project. Features of the grant work include new weekly caregiver “drop in” coffees, regular cognitive screening opportunities and respite services. Services are open to all, with special emphasis on serving Russian-speaking Jewish immigrants from the former Soviet Union. Perham Hospital District (doing business as Perham Health), Perham, $143,393. Serving a 180-square-mile rural area across Otter Tail County, Perham Health is using grant funds to implement a holistic dementia-capable model addressing critical gaps for rural older adults and their family and friends caregiving. Strategies include increasing cognitive testing and early diagnosis and expanding care navigation services, as well as piloting a respite service.

Prairie Five Community Action Council, Montevideo, $42,765. Using a pop-up

raising children with disabilities in communities large and small. Their voices bring essential family perspectives, ensuring that inclusion, accessibility, and family needs remain central to advocacy work.

Family members from rural Minnesota share stories of resilience, connection and advocacy in smaller communities. Their experiences shed light on both the strengths and gaps in rural services, helping ensure that the needs and priorities of families across the entire state aren’t ignored.

Participants who are both family members and self-advocates themselves hold a distinctive and vital role in the program. As both parents and people with disabilities themselves, they bring a deeply informed understanding of advocacy from multiple perspectives. Their lived experiences— navigating systems of support for themselves and for their children—offer invaluable insight into how policies and programs can better serve individuals and families alike.

“mobile community center” model across its five-county service area, Prairie Five will offer dementia and brain health education, cognitive screening and individualized family and friend caregiving support in 10 communities. A four-part radio series on dementia, “Shining a Light on Memory Loss,” will also be developed and aired through a partnership with local radio. Regents of the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, $49,961. Grant funds will support “Honoring Elder Wisdom,” a twoday regional gathering on the Leech Lake Indian Reservation centered on education and support around Alzheimer's disease and related dementias for Native American people and those who serve them. Area providers will collaborate with three Minnesota Tribal Nations and the Memory Keepers Medical Discovery Team at the University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth. The event includes experiential, evidence-based dementia education and resources for family and friends caregiving.

REGIONAL NEWS

Ruling shines light on need for more bed spaces

A unanimous Minnesota Supreme Court ruling earlier this fall highlighted the state’s ongoing dilemma over the lack of available bed space for criminal defendants found to be mentally ill and unfit to stand trial.

The opinion determined that counties are responsible for the legal fees of defendants who file petitions to force the state to place them in a treatment facility. The justices recognized this will place a financial burden on counties across Minnesota.

While state government controls who gets placed into treatment facilities, the lack of available beds has left counties housing mentally ill people who are incompetent to stand trial. Lawyers for those defendants fight to get them into treatment facilities, where they are legally obligated to be housed.

Even when counties and district court judges agree that a defendant should be in treatment, they have been told, time and again, that district courts have no authority to force the state to place people who’ve been found incompetent to stand trial.

The Supreme Court opinion highlighted the legislature’s role in this problem and likely responsibility to solve it.

Scott County Attorney Ron Hocevar, whose case was at the center of the Supreme Court ruling, said he disagreed with the opinion but thought the court zeroed in on the larger issue.

“For the state to make us pay for something we have absolutely no control over I think

Providers to be disenrolled

Medicaid providers who have not billed for services in more than a year will be disenrolled from Minnesota’s Medicaid program, as the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) tightens oversight.

The first round of disenrollment began October 15, when roughly 800 providers were disenrolled. Impacted providers were certified prior to April 1, 2024, and have not billed since that date. This round of disenrollments does not include 621 inactive housing stabilization services providers because the program is slated to end on Oct. 31.

“We must reduce risk and increase efficiencies wherever we can,” said temporary Human Services Commissioner Shireen Gandhi.

“Taking this first step to streamline the pool of inactive providers will strengthen the integrity of Minnesota’s Medicaid programs and services.”

The action strengthens program integrity by reducing the administrative burden and compliance challenges of overseeing providers who aren’t providing services. The change ensures that Medicaid resources focus on providers who are actively serving members of Minnesota’s public health care programs.

The move also aligns with Governor Walz’s Executive Order 25-10 directing agencies to take additional steps to continue combatting fraud. The governor ordered DHS to “immediately disenroll all Minnesota Health Care Program enrolled providers who have not billed Medicaid in the last 12 months,” within the bounds of the law.

Additional rounds of disenrollments will continue.

Inactive providers will be notified of their disenrollment by letter. The letter will include information about how to appeal the decision if they believe it was made in error.

(Source: Minnesota DHS) Community, union urge Allina to reconsider closing The closure of the inpatient chemical

is going to be a huge burden,” he said. “The legislature has to deal with this, as far as what to do with people who are committed. The facilities we have are completely inadequate. They know it. Everyone knows what the issues are. They have to take care of it.”

Hocevar said the county is often trying to help a defendant who is mentally ill and in need of treatment, but “in limbo” awaiting placement.

The Scott County man whose case brought the Supreme Court opinion assaulted hospital staff in 2022 during a mental health crisis. He was found incompetent to stand trial.

A month after that finding, the man remained in county jail and his attorneys filed a motion to force the state to place him in a treatment facility, a legally obligated duty for people “imprisoned or otherwise restrained of liberty.” These petitions are known as “extraordinary writs.” After the petition was filed, the man was transferred to a treatment facility.

The wait time for high priority placement of mentally ill patients at the state’s Forensic Mental Health Program at St. Peter was 527 days in the fourth quarter of 2024. The wait time for high priority placement at the Anoka Metro Regional Treatment Center was 33 days.

Minnesota law requires that a person determined to be mentally ill and incompetent to stand trial be placed in a treatment facility within 48 hours.

dependency unit at Mercy Hospital-Unity Campus could lead to layoffs and fewer treatment options for patients.

Community members and Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) members testified during an October public hearing hosted by the Minnesota Department of Health.

Allina plans to close the unit in February, citing a decline in demand and a significant change in the ability to get authorization for payment for the inpatient treatment.

“Insurance companies were willing to pay for the time an individual was in withdrawal, but the days of paying for inpatient hospital treatment were ending,” said Joseph Clubb, vice president of Allina Health’s Mental Health and Addiction Services.

The 24-bed unit is one of the last inpatient units of its kind in the state, according to Clubb. He explained closing the unit reduces the number of total inpatient beds on the Mercy HospitalUnity Campus from 85 to 61.

Allina Health said in a statement, in part, “The majority of patients requiring medical detox services will continue to access services through general admission at both campuses of Mercy Hospital, as well as through medical units and outpatient services throughout Allina Health.”

“The medical units are just not set up for that,” said Gail Olson, the MNA co-chair at Unity Hospital. “Why are they taking services away from people who are a very vulnerable population. Chemical dependency is on the rise, and it’s not going down, and we want to help serve those people that need help and are trying to get on the road to recovery.

Olson and co-chair Robin Larson are worried it will reduce the quality of patient care.

“It’s huge, people come to our facility knowing we have a chem-dem program,” said Larson. “These nurses are special; they know how to work with these rehab patients.”

The union is also preparing for layoffs. Larson explained under their current contract, the nurses in the unit will lose their jobs because it is a facility closure.

(Source: KSTP-TV)

Minnesota Sen. Jim Abeler, R-Anoka, said the state is in the midst of a four-year pause of that law after Attorney General Keith Ellison requested it because of bed shortages. Placement is now dictated by bed availability.

Abeler and a group of legislators led a fight to get $75 million allocated for additional treatment beds this year. He argued that state leaders, including Gov. Tim Walz, have failed to come up with a long-term plan, despite broad

Federal lawsuit is filed

The wife of a Nisswa man who died last year in the Crow Wing County jail has filed a federal lawsuit against the county and a correctional officer.

Robert Slaybaugh, 57, was booked into the jail on February 22, 2024, on suspicion of drunk driving. He was found unresponsive in his cell later the same evening. A medical examiner ruled his death suicide by hanging.

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of Susan Slaybaugh, his wife of 32 years. It claims the county and correctional officer Brandon Anderson ignored red flags indicating Slaybaugh's need for medical and mental health care, including severe intoxication and a prior suicide attempt.

Slaybaugh served for more than 30 years as camp director of Confidence Learning Center in Brainerd, which provides outdoor recreational experiences for people with cognitive and developmental disabilities.

The lawsuit also said Slaybaugh was placed in a cell with a bunk bed that the Minnesota Department of Corrections had identified as a suicide risk. It had been used in multiple other suicide attempts at the jail.

"We think that it's critical that there be answers as to how he could have been left alone in a room with those hazardous bunks, given those other circumstances that really do create a substantial risk for suicide,” said attorney Jeff Storms with the Minneapolis law firm Storms Dworak, which is representing Susan Slaybaugh.

Storms said Slaybaugh was cleared to be placed in a general housing unit where guards check on inmates every 30 minutes, instead of more frequently as required for inmates who are potentially suicidal or experiencing withdrawal.

The lawsuit accuses Anderson of violating Slaybaugh’s constitutional rights under the 14th Amendment, and it accuses the county of maintaining policies and practices that “fostered a culture of disregard for suicide

bipartisan agreement at the Legislature.

“This is a state problem they’ve neglected,” Abeler said.

He felt that the Supreme Court opinion was direct about the specific legal argument concerning payment, but the issue of bed availability is “the end of the line on a problem the state has refused to address.”

(Source: Star Tribune)

prevention.” It seeks a judgment in excess of $75,000.

"It's both about accountability and justice,” Storms said. “And when we talk about accountability, not just for (Slaybaugh’s) family, but other families that are likely to have loved ones detained at the Crow Wing County jail."

Crow Wing County Sheriff Eric Klang referred questions on the lawsuit to Jason Hiveley, a Bloomington attorney representing the county and its employees. Hiveley declined to comment on pending litigation.

(Source: Minnesota Public Radio) Entire program threatened

Providers operating under the Minnesota Department of Human Services-administered (DHS) Integrated Community Supports (ICS) program and leadership with the Residential Providers Association of Minnesota (RPAMN) say a change in state law this year meant, in part, to crack down on fraud may threaten the entire program.

ICS programs in Minnesota served 2,500 individuals in 2024, according to DHS.

“We are teetering on the edge of collapse, and nobody seems to be focusing on the real issue,” said Josh Berg, director of Minnesota services and strategic growth for nonprofit Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI).

5 EYEWITNESS NEWS met with Berg at Roselawn Village, where ASI provides ICS services. DHS reimburses providers for the cost of those services, but does not assist with the cost of rent.

Roselawn Village is income-subsidized housing, but other providers have had to get more “creative” to help their lower-income clients cover the cost of rent, Berg said.

“So there are some providers, nonprofit providers, that raise money to cover the costs that some of their individuals can’t afford,” he said.

Then DHS began suspending some ICS provider payments.

REGIONAL NEWS To page 11

PEOPLE AND PLACES

Disability rights activist Olson receives award

A longtime Access Press supporter and former newspaper board member was presented with the Donald S. Milloy Disability Advocacy Award. Manley Olson was honored by his peers in the Presbyterian church. He is a ruling elder at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Minneapolis, serving with the church minister as part of the church's governing body. The award is given by the Presbytery of the Twin Cities. Its Disability Concerns Ministry recognized Olson for his groundbreaking advocacy over the past several decades. Olson and Rev. Bebe Baldwin are founders of what became the Disability Concerns Ministry. Olson has been a long-serving, outstanding force in promoting disability awareness, demonstrating his concern that all persons

Minnesota Aging Pathways is a service of the Minnesota Board on Aging in partnership with Minnesota's area agencies on aging.

Minnesota Aging Pathways can be reached Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.to 4:30 p.m. by calling 800-333-2433 or via live chat online at mn.gov/aging-pathways.

Hamline grant has disability focus

Hamline University has been awarded a five-year TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) grant from the U.S. Department of Education, totaling nearly $1.4 million. The grant will support first-generation, lowincome, and students with disabilities in achieving academic success.

The TRIO SSS program will provide comprehensive support services to 140 Hamline students annually, including academic advising, tutoring, financial literacy workshops, career counseling, and assistance with graduate school applications. These services are designed to increase retention rates, promote good academic standing, and improve graduation rates among participating students.

The grant’s principal author, Lisa Nordeen, will serve as the program lead for the TRIO SSS positions created through this funding. Hamline will be hiring three dedicated staff members to deliver service to program participants. Eligible students include those who are first-generation college students, meet federal income guidelines, or have documented disabilities.

Recruitment of eligible students will begin in the spring semester.

Walz, Flanagan announce appointments

Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan announced the following appointments to state boards, commissions and committees.

The Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine has seated new members. Katrin

Bachmeier, St. Paul, and Julie Johnson, Rosemount, are disability advocacy organization representatives. Jennifer Ballinger, Onamia, and Linda Fairchild, Otsego, represent providers of disability waiver services for persons under the age of 65.

Kristine Erickson, Brainerd, represents family members of individuals who are receiving disability waiver services

Katrina Jirik, St. Paul; Jennifer Johnson, Woodbury and Meredith McKinnon, Shoreview, represent individuals currently receiving disability waiver services who are under age 65.

The Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine will conduct public meetings, gather input, and make recommendations on various aspects of the Waiver Reimagine program, such as waiver consolidation, budget methodologies, service criteria, and potential consequences of the program changes.

Appointees were named to the Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education. John Carlson, Rochester, is a member with demonstrated expertise in compliance with legal federal special education requirements and special education finance

Krista Dillman, Kimball; Laura Jean, Minneapolis; Justin Killian, St. Paul; Ramona Springis-Doss, Apple Valley and Stacie Stanley. St. Paul, are members with demonstrated public leadership, cultural responsiveness and innovation in the area of special education

Marcy Doud, St. Paul; Melanie Kray, Waconia; Erin Lavery, Stillwater and Cory McIntyre, Anoka are members with expertise in special education program administration

Delia Samuel, Fridley, is a parent/family advocate.

The Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education advises and assists the legislature and governor in transforming special education services.

find support and be able to participate fully in all ministries of the church. In the late 1980s when he was an elder at North Como Presbyterian Church in St. Paul, Olson and Baldwin created a task force on disabilities. They worked through the 1990s to make physical adaptations to that church. A task force that they established evolved into the current Disability Concerns Ministry.

He also was instrumental in helping to inspire and guide churches throughout the Presbytery in following Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. He helped congregations adapt their buildings to be welcoming and safe for persons with mobility issues.

In addition to his vast experience with

DeVries will be in the seat for register nursenursing home.

The board licenses administrators of nursing homes and assisted living facilities, conducts studies of nursing home and assisted living administration; approves continuing education programs for administrators; and investigates complaints and allegations of rule violations.

Lisa Vanderveen-Nagel, Elko New Market, was appointed to the Minnesota Competency Attainment Board. The board creates and administers a statewide, independent competency attainment system that certifies competency attainment programs and uses forensic navigators to promote prevention and diversion of people with mental illnesses and cognitive impairments from entering the legal system, support defendants with mental illness and cognitive impairments, support defendants in the competency process, and assist courts and partners in coordinating competency attainment services.

Community Challenge grants given Communities throughout Minnesota will receive 2025 Community Challenge grants from AARP. The grants are part of AARP’s $4.2 million commitment to fund quick-action projects aimed at making communities more livable for people of all ages, with a focus on the needs of older adults.

Now in its ninth year, the challenge has awarded $558,589 through 45 grants in Minnesota since 2017 to nonprofit organizations and local government entities across the state. Grant projects will be funded in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

churches, Manley has worked at the General Assembly level to promote and support the full inclusion of people with disabilities.

Olson has demonstrated a deep and long-lasting commitment to people with disabilities, from those very early days of ADA, to the expanded vision and work today to engage and promote the full inclusion of people with both physical and unseen disabilities.

The award honors the legacy of the late Rev. Don Milloy who, through his courage, commitment, and wisdom, taught many that all people who live with disabilities have valuable gifts to share.

Learn more at https://www.ptcaweb.org/ disability-concerns-ministry

Parents Inspired, $16,000. Parents Inspired will pilot an on-demand transportation program for older adults age 50 and over and disabled people in Hutchinson. The service will prioritize medical appointments and offer non-medical rides based on driver availability, enhancing mobility and access to essential services within a 25-mile radius.

Mahnomen County, $15,000. Mahnomen will upgrade the Senior Living Center to improve accessibility for residents aged 50 and older. The project includes a wider doorway, ramp and automatic door opener to ensure safer, more inclusive access for those with mobility challenges.

City of Newfolden, $15,000. The City of Newfolden will create an outdoor gathering area at the Newfolden Community and Senior Center. The space will feature accessible seating, planting areas, and tablescapes to promote intergenerational gathering and inclusivity for all mobility needs.

City of Sleepy Eye, $15,000. The project will create walkable access and rest areas connecting the senior center, museum, Chief Sleepy Eye Monument, Veterans Park and local shops. It will include benches, trash receptacles, flowerpots and a mural, enhancing accessibility and aesthetics for all visitors.

North East Seniors for Better Living, St. Paul, $2,500. North East Seniors will have staff visit the homes of older adults in need to provide small-scale repairs and make safety improvements. Staff will also help older adults find community services such as rides, chore help and in-home nursing to ensure they remain healthy and comfortable in their homes.

Camilla Peterson-DeVries, Litchfield, was appointed to the Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports. Peterson-

Mankato:

“AARP Minnesota is proud to work with communities across the state to help make them more livable for people of all ages. These projects are about turning great local ideas into real improvements that make everyday life better, especially for older Minnesotans,” said Cathy McLeer, AARP MN state director.

The grants are:

Progressive Pathways, Minneapolis, $2,500. This project will conduct six sessions at various locations to prepare for summer storms and flooding. Informational magnets, checklists and supplies will be distributed. Somali interpretation will be provided for sessions and materials.

Manley Olson

RADIO TALKING BOOK

Feedback is still needed

Anyone who has not yet weighed in about Minnesota Radio Talking Book and user experiences is urged to do so. The staff depend on listener input to make services better. Go to https://tinyurl.com/surveyRTB or call Lisa Rogers, marketing and outreach coordinator, at 651-539-2381.

Enjoy Radio Talking Book

For November, 22 new books are premiering. Radio Talking Book is not just for listeners with visual disabilities. Anyone with difficulty reading or turning pages can enjoy the service. Radio Talking Book schedules can be emailed. Sign up at tinyurl.com/RTBemail. Contact Ronnie Washington at 651-539-1424 or SSB.Equipment@state.mn.us to indicate what version is desired.

The sampling published monthly in Access Press doesn’t represent the full array of programming. Listen to RTB’s live or archived programs online at www.mnssb.org/rtb, and learn more about programs.

Hear programming on a hand-held mobile device, for either iOS or Android. Visit the Apple App Store for iOS, or Google Play for Android, and download the Minnesota Radio Talking Book app.

Missed a book broadcast? Access it for one week following its original broadcast in the online weekly program archive.

For help accessing the archive, contact Ronnie Washington at 651-539-1424 or SSB. Equipment@state.mn.us.

If the book’s broadcast is no longer available in the archive, contact staff librarian Molly McGilp at 651-539-1422 or Molly.McGilp@ state.mn.us

Books broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network are available for loan through the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library in Faribault. The catalog is at www.mnbtbl.org. Call 800-722-0550, Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. CST.

Updates are also on the Facebook site Minnesota Radio Talking Book.

Audio information about the daily book listings is on the National Federation for the Blind (NFB) Newsline. Register for NFB Newsline by calling 651-539-1424. The NFBNEWSLINE service provides access to more than 500 magazines and newspapers. To learn more, visit www.nfb.org/programsservices/nfb-newsline, 612-562-7803

Staff welcomes any feedback or suggestions. Contact Joseph Papke at 651539-2316 or joseph.papke@state.mn.us. Contact Tom Conry at 651-642-0880 or thomas.conry@state.mn.us with comments about periodicals and newspapers programming.

Chautauqua*

Monday – Friday 6 a.m.

Solitude, nonfiction by Netta Weinstein, Heather Hansen, and Thuy-vy T. Nguyen, 2024. An exploration of the benefits and challenges of day-to-day alone time with the latest science and stories from around the world. Read by Jim Gregorich. 11 broadcasts; begins Mon, Nov. 3.

Pivot Or Die, nonfiction by Gary Shapiro, 2024. An experienced CEO offers a framework for leaders in technology and beyond to stay flexible and agile in a competitive environment. Read by Pat Ocken. Nine broadcasts; begins Tue, Nov. 18.

Past is Prologue*

Monday – Friday 11 a.m.

Alexander at the End of the World, nonfiction by Rachel Kousser, 2024. A riveting biography of Alexander the Great’s final years, when the leader’s insatiable desire to conquer the world set him off on an exhilarating, harrowing journey that would define his legacy. Read by Yelva Lynfield. 17 broadcasts; begins Mon, Nov. 3

Vertigo, nonfiction by Harald Jähner, 2024. A dramatic and consequential history of Germany’s short-lived experiment with democracy between the world wars when vibrant cultural experimentation collided with political and economic turmoil. Read by John Gunter. 18 broadcasts; begins Wed, Nov. 26.

Bookworm*

Monday – Friday 12 p.m.

The Cannibal Owl, fiction by Aaron Gwyn, 2025. A novella of austere, cinematic prose steeped in Native American culture, set in 1820s Texas. Read by Jim Gregorich. Two broadcasts; begins Thu, Nov. 6.

Lone Dog Road, fiction by Kent Nerburn, 2025. A coming-of-age novel about two young Lakota brothers who journey across the Dakota plains to replace a broken sacred pipe—a story of resilience, connection and spiritual discovery. Read by Stuart Holland. 18 broadcasts; begins Mon, Nov. 10.

The Writer’s Voice*

Monday – Friday 1 p.m.

The Mary Years, nonfiction by Julie Marie Wade, 2024. A coming-of-age memoir and celebration of female role-models, particularly sit-com character Mary Richards. Read by Holly Sylvester. Five broadcasts; begins Mon, Nov. 10.

The Elements of Marie Curie, nonfiction by Dava Sobel, 2024. A luminous chronicle of the life and work of the most famous woman in the history of science. Read by Therese Murray. 11 broadcasts; begins Mon, Nov. 17.

Choice Reading*

Monday – Friday 2 p.m.

I Might Be In Trouble, fiction by Daniel Aleman, 2024. A suspense-filled dark comedy about a struggling writer who wakes up to find his date from the night before dead—and must then decide how far he’s willing to go to use this as inspiration for his next book. Read by Jodi Lindskog. 12 broadcasts; begins Thu, Nov. 13. – L, S Afternoon Report*

Monday – Friday 4 p.m.

Vote With Your Phone, nonfiction by Bradley Tusk, 2024. A rousing call for leveraging technology to expand voting rights and democratic virtues. Read by Phil Rosenbaum. Eight broadcasts; begins Mon, Nov. 3. – L

Who Is Government?, nonfiction by Michael Lewis, 2025. An urgent and absorbing civics lesson with compelling arguments against ideologues bent on dismantling the government, from an all-star team of writers and storytellers. Read by John Potts. Eight broadcasts; begins Thu, Nov. 13.

The Siren's Call, nonfiction by Chris Hayes, 2025. An ambitious analysis of how the trivial amusements offered by online life have degraded not only our selves but also our politics. Read by Holly Sylvester. 12 broadcasts; begins Tue, Nov. 25.

Night Journey*

Monday –Friday 7 p.m.

Gabriel's Moon, fiction by William Boyd, 2024. A London-based writer accidentally finds himself stuck in the webs of 1960s British intelligence. Read by Michele Potts. 10 broadcasts; begins Thu, Nov. 6. – L, S A Long Time Gone, fiction by Joshua Moehling, 2025. In the dark, icy heart of a Minnesota winter, Deputy Ben Packard embarks on a mission to uncover the truth about his brother’s childhood disappearance. Read by Paul Ranelli. 11 broadcasts; begins Thu, Nov. 20. – L

Off the Shelf

Monday – Friday 8 p.m.

The Mighty Red, fiction by Louise Erdrich, 2024. A story of love, natural forces, spiritual yearnings and the tragic impact of uncontrollable circumstances on ordinary people’s lives. Read by Michelle Juntunen. 14 broadcasts; begins Wed, Nov. 12. – L Potpourri

Monday – Friday 9 p.m.

Cabin, nonfiction by Patrick Hutchison, 2024. A memoir of the journey from an office job to restoring a cabin in the Pacific Northwest. Read by Dan Sadoff. 10 broadcasts; begins Mon, Nov. 3. – L

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All times listed are Central Standard Time.

Abbreviations

V

– violent content

R – racial epithets

L – strong language

S – sexual situation

G – gory descriptions

The Name of This Band Is R.E.M., nonfiction by Peter Ames Carlin, 2024. How four college-town scenesters became unlikely million-sellers and the center of the ’90s zeitgeist. Read by Jill Wolf. 16 broadcasts; begins Mon, Nov. 17. – L

Good Night Owl

Monday – Friday 10 p.m.

The Way, fiction by Cary Groner, 2024. A pensive, dystopian Western set in the wake of a devastating pandemic that stars a reluctant Buddhist hero with an ability to talk to animals. Read by Paul Ranelli. 11 broadcasts; begins Tue, Nov. 4. – L, S, G Service Model, fiction by Adrian Tchaikovsky, 2024. A pair of out-of-place survivors go on a satirical journey to replace what they lost when human civilization collapsed around them in this clever postapocalyptic adventure. Read by John Holden. 16 broadcasts; begins Wed, Nov. 19. – L RTB After Hours*

Monday – Friday 11 p.m.

The Tearsmith (rebroadcast), fiction by Erin Doom, 2024. A dark, sexy, haunting novel of two aching young adults who are taken in by the same family and forced to reckon with a destructive love that could be the undoing of them both. Read by Michelle Juntunen. 24 broadcasts; begins Mon, Nov. 3. – L, S, V Weekend Program Books

Your Personal World, 1 p.m. Sat, presents Fight Right by Julie and John Gottman, read by Dan Sadoff; followed by The Joy of Connections by Dr. Ruth Westheimer, read by Yelva Lynfield.

For the Younger Set, 11 a.m. Sun, presents Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl, read by Brenda Powell; followed by Humphrey and Me by Stuart H. Brady, read by Jack Rossman. Poetic Reflections, noon Sun, presents [Elipses] by Fady Joudah, read by Peter Danbury; followed by a rebroadcast of Bright Dead Things by Ada Limón, read by Mary Beth Redmond.

The Great North, 4 p.m. Sun, presents Too Much Sea For Their Decks by Michael Schumacher, read by Nancy Johnson; followed by Hidden History of Twin Cities Sports by Joel Rippel, read by John Gunter

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TAKE NOTE!

A Disability and Faith Speaker Panel is 2-3:30 p.m. Sat, Nov. 8, at Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church, 511 Groveland Ave., Mpls. Come listen to the life experiences of four people with different disabilities and faith backgrounds. This is an opportunity to learn from people with disabilities, rather than just learning about them. Through sharing their experiences, the speakers are inviting everyone to view life from their perspectives. There is vulnerability and bravery in sharing these stories. ASL interpreter offered. Attend in-person or via Zoom. Refreshments offered at 3 p.m. Free and open to the public. FFI: https://haumc.org/event/disability-life-and-faith/ Speaker panel offered

REGIONAL NEWS

From page 8

The state agency also sent a bulletin out to providers as updated guidance “…on a new state law prohibiting kickbacks…” One provided example of a potential kickback included, “Covering or paying a portion of a recipient’s rent.”

“It hasn’t been an issue for the last four years of this program’s existence, and now we’re second-guessing everything,” Berg said of the bulletin.

Matthew Bergeron, who provides legislative & legal counsel for RPAMN, said providers have been wondering if that example of a “potential kickback” could explain why some ICS provider payments have been suspended.

“So that’s been some of the sort of informal assumptions on the problem,” Bergeron said. “But again, because none of these notices lay out, ‘This is the problem,’ it’s really hard to know concretely what they’ve identified.”

“…And at the moment, it feels like that regulatory ambiguity is being resolved quite strongly against the providers,” he continued.

5 EYEWITNESS NEWS asked DHS: “Is it considered a ‘kickback’ if the provider helps to cover partial rent for the recipient, but does not bill for ICS fund reimbursement for it…?”

In response, a spokesperson wrote, “DHS is unable to provide any legal guidance on the hypothetical you provided,” adding that providers cannot offer money or in any way incentivize someone to choose their company.

As for why providers have been helping pay for rent in some cases, Berg said there’s a significant lack of affordable options for ICS clients and in general.

DHS did not fully address the question of whether a provider, through fundraising or other non-ICS-related means of funding, can cover part of the housing cost for their clients.

“Yeah, and I think so many providers just don’t know, and so now they’re stuck thinking, ‘I’m better off potentially getting out of this,’ because there is no systemic solution,” Berg said.

As of the latest update, 11 providers have had their ICS payments paused.

Berg said he and other providers alerted DHS to the lack of available affordable housing and have been asking for guidance on how to navigate it in a way that complies with

laws and program regulations for at least four years prior.

See the full statement attributed to DHS below:

DHS is unable to provide any legal guidance on the hypothetical you provided below. The relationship between housing funding and health care services is nuanced and depends on the specific facts of each individual situation.

We would point you to Minnesota Statutes section 609.542, which makes it illegal to “offer or receive money, discounts, credits, waivers, or any other form of remuneration in exchange for referrals or services related to state-funded healthcare programs.” In other words, a provider cannot give any form of remuneration in exchange for the individual choosing them as their service provider. In addition, the law prohibits the use of Medicaid funding to pay for rent or room and board, except in certain medical institutions, which does not include ICS settings.

See the full question 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS posed, referenced above by DHS as a “hypothetical”:

“Is it considered a ‘kickback’ if the provider helps to cover partial rent for the recipient, but does not bill for ICS fund reimbursement for it, and they do not have the recipient ‘commit to an inflated number of ICS service hours per week’?”

(Source: KSTP-TV)

Ripple effects are seen

A St. Paul woman said she will likely end up homeless soon because the state stopped paying her housing provider. The state stopped payments to 11 providers who handled housing services for disabled tenants, citing "credible allegations of fraud."

The allegations came after a wave of other recent fraud allegations – and some criminal charges – involving various state programs.

The woman, who did not want to be identified due to the personal nature of her ordeal, said she found her downtown apartment via Housing Stabilization Services – a program the state shut down in August after the FBI raided multiple properties as part of a wide-ranging fraud investigation.

In the case, eight suspects have been charged with federal crimes. Prosecutors said they expect to charge additional suspects.

Another state housing program, Integrated Community Supports, provided the

Some notes about Take Note!

Access Press is publishing fewer calendar items in print and encouraging more to be posted online. The change allows more immediate information about upcoming events.

Thanks to organizations that have used our web page rather than sending items for the print calendar. Many more of you are urged to join!

Online options include paid online advertising or our free events calendar. Ways to post an event on the online calendar can be found at www. accesspress.org, under the listings tab. The event must be disabled-focused, offer accommodations or led by a disability service organization.

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Please list your accommodations and complete information, such as time, date and place, with an ad or a free calendar listing. That information is especially needed for users of paratransit who must often schedule rides in advance. Anyone

woman with housing services. But when that program became the target of fraud allegations in September, the Minnesota Department of Human Services stopped paying 11 providers.

Now, the woman must find another place to live. She said she will likely end up homeless – again.

“For three years now, I have been grounded, and life was finally feeling very comfortable and normal, and now it’s thrown back out on the street and homeless again,” she told FOX 9. “Zero compassion, zero consideration, zero thought. And it is – the human cost is huge. It’s huge, and this time it’s my life.”

She explained that the state stopped paying her provider after he underwent a series of audits.

"He did say that he had been audited six times in the last two years, which is beyond excessive, and that nothing was ever found in all of those six times and yet funding was pulled while the DHS memo that they put out said, ‘If you can provide proof there’s no fraud, we will reinstate your funding,’ which has yet to happen for him," she says.

Her provider, Jama Mahamod, who operated St. Paul-based American Home Health Care, confirmed that he was audited multiple times before the state stopped paying him.

He said he had no choice but to evict his four tenants, and he closed his business after the state stopped paying him in September. He denies any wrongdoing.

In a statement, DHS said, in part:

with questions can contact Editor Jane McClure at jane@accesspress.org or 651644-2133 ext. 1

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"Integrated Community Supports (ICS) is a home and community-based service that provides personal care, household management support and training to clients living in apartment or multi-housing units that the service provider owns, operates, or leases. Housing costs or rent is separate from and not included in the ICS service. The type and amount of services a person receives depends on the person’s specific assessed areas of need, as documented by the case manager in the person-centered support plan.”

(Source: KMSP-TV)

For adults with qualifying disabilities. Over 50

apartment communities & homes throughout the Metropolitan Area, Greater Minnesota & throughout the Midwest. Locations also available in many other states. Income limits apply. Immediate openings in Hibbing, MN!

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For qualifying senior households age 62 or better. Metro & Greater MN locations available. Accessible apts, available for seniors in these locations. Income limits apply.

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Access Press is a 501 (C) 3 nonprofit organization.

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For qualifying senior households age 62 or better. Metro & Greater MN locations available. Accessible apts, available for seniors in these locations. Income limits apply.

Immediate openings in Worthington and Albert Lea, Minnesota

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* Eligibility for or selection of ASI services is not requred to qualify for housing. ASI services are not available in all locations.

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* Eligibility for or selection of ASI services is not requred to qualify for housing. ASI services are not available in all locations.

To us Access Press means giving a voice to the largest unique group in the U.S.—people with disabilities. We promote the social inclusion and rights of people with disabilities by providing a forum for news, features, opinion and conversation to benefit people who are often invisible and marginalized in mainstream society and the people who care for them.

Access Press is Minnesota’s Disability Community News source. We have a lived knowledge of disability through our incredibly committed board and staff.