The PICS Social Justice Work Group joins mourners worldwide in remembering the life of Judith “Judy” Heumann, who died on March 4, 2023. Judy is widely regarded as “the mother of the disability rights movement.

When you have a child or loved one with a developmental disability, it is important to make plans regarding decision-making before they reach the age of 18. At that point, parents no longer have the legal authority to make decisions on behalf of their child. Two options are Guardianship and Supported Decision-Making.

The U.S. government has announced that the federal Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 will end on May 11, 2023. That will be the last day of the waiver allowing spouses and parents of minors to provide personal care assistance (PCA) services as paid caregivers. If this change impacts you or your loved one, contact your county or tribal office case manager or managed care organization care coordinator.

During the months of January and February, PICS (Partners in Community Supports) is sponsoring content in the Sahan Journal. Sahan Journal is “dedicated to reporting for immigrants and communities of color in Minnesota.”

“I can tell her what I need and what I don't need.” With those 12 words, Mary Solis succinctly states one of several benefits of the in-home supports that she receives from her daughter, Brenda Solis.

Now that 2023 has begun, you may have started thinking about completing your 2022 taxes. Like most years, Tax Day this year is in April – specifically April 18, 2023 – so you have plenty of time to file. If you’re getting a start already, here is everything you need to know about PICS and your taxes.

“Raising a child with medical complexities is a long and lonely road,” says Kristine, whose son, Bentley, was born with multiple congenital medical issues. “It’s similar to a sport, in a way. It takes dedication. It takes courage. It takes perseverance.”

2022 is a big year for elections. All residents of Minnesota will be voting for the following offices: U.S. Representative, Governor and Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, State Auditor, Attorney General, State Senator, State Representative, judicial seats and other offices, depending on polling location.

Many family members provide caregiving for their loved ones who need support to remain in their homes. If your loved one is eligible for a program through Medicaid, you may be able to be paid for the care you’re providing.

Unfortunately, the Minnesota Legislature was unable to agree on spending in many areas, including Health and Human Services. This means that many of the changes to long-term disability care, updates to the waiver rate system, and other priorities that would have benefitted individuals with disabilities were not made into law this year. We are hopeful that 2023 will be a productive session that results in much needed changes to disability services.