SAINT PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Council on Disability has awarded Rep. Kelly Moller (DFL – Shoreview) its 2022 Exceptional Advocate Award. The award goes to citizen advocates and legislators who do notable work for people with disabilities.
“Everyone in our community deserves to live safe, healthy, fulfilling lives free of discrimination with the ability to thrive,” Rep. Moller said. “I’m thankful to MCD for their recognition and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work on legislation improving the way of life for people with disabilities in Minnesota, as well as assisting individual constituents with roadblocks they may face in their daily lives. Challenges for people with disabilities continue to evolve, and I’m as committed as ever to helping improve services, support, and opportunities in our state.”
During the 2022 legislative session, Rep. Moller was the chief author of several bills to help people with disabilities live independently in their communities while having the support they count on, including legislation to expand shared services, life sharing, supported decision making, and other community supports. She has consistently supported additional investments for direct support professionals and personal care attendants to address the workforce crisis in Minnesota’s caring professions.
Shoreview resident Mark Hughes nominated Rep. Moller for the award, noting her support for PCA funding and assistance with difficulties he experienced with Metro Mobility services.
The MCD is a panel of 17 members of the public and disability advocates appointed by the Governor charged with advising state agencies, the Legislature, and the public regarding public policy, programs, services, and facilities for Minnesotans who have a disability. Its mission is to serve people with disabilities in Minnesota through development of effective policy, training, technical resources and collaborations with public and private stakeholders, and a vision for a barrier-free Minnesota where every person with a disability has full access to all aspects of life.