Minnesota Budget Cuts Affect Disabled Individuals

Like many states, Minnesota has been forced to cut several state-funded programs from its budget. This is likely to affect the state's poor and disabled individuals in a myriad of ways.

The Twin Cities Daily Planet reports the new budget proposed by Governor Pawlenty would decrease the budget for health and human services by about $350 million. The reduced budget will affect many families that make between about $8,000 and $27,000 per year, by either dropping their state healthcare or increasing premiums for those still eligible.

In addition, about 4,000 recipients of Supplemental Security Income would lose the cash assistance offered by the Minnesota Family Investment Program, which is a welfare-to-work program. This is because their SSI income would be counted as regular income.

Additionally, fewer people with disabilities will be able to use home-based Medicaid services, meaning that many will now have to be moved to more expensive centers in order to receive the necessary healthcare. Also, Minnesota Supplemental Assistance - Special Diets would no longer be funded. This program helps some elderly and disabled people pay for special, medically necessary diets.

If you or your loved one are suffering from a severe physical or mental disability and you have trouble paying your monthly bills, you should contact a Social Security Disability lawyer immediately to learn about your rights and determine eligibility. The process of securing Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be difficult and overwhelming. Don't go it alone! The disability lawyers at LaVan & Neidenberg, located in Ft. Lauderdale, FL understand the inner workings of the Social Security Administration and will help you navigate the system. Call us today for a FREE legal consultation - 1-888-234-5758.