Gov. Dayton Passes 5% Campaign!

During the 2014 Legislative Session, Gov. Dayton and the Legislature enacted a 5% rate increase for Home and Community Based Services. Before these increases, the 86,500 Minnesota health care professionals who provide high-quality care for Minnesotans with disabilities had not received a wage increase since 2009.

From 2007 to 2011, Minnesota’s provider reimbursement rate rose less than 2%, while inflation increased by over 10%. Stagnant wages have created significant hardships for Direct Support Professionals (DSP) – straining their ability to care for those with disabilities. In fact, many DSP's in Minnesota have been forced to find second jobs, or find alternative positions in higher-paying industries.

Raising the wages will help attract and maintain a high-quality workforce – helping improve the lives and care options of Minnesotans with disabilities. Ensuring our most vulnerable friends, neighbors, and loved ones have access to high-quality care helps them live more independently, and avoid more costly and restrictive settings.

A big thank you to everyone for contacting your legislature about the importance of The 5% Campaign!