March 5, 2026
Featured News
LeadingAge Minnesota Testifies in Opposition to Legislation Attempting to Add Staffing Mandates to Senior Care
On March 5, 2026 by Erin Huppert
This week, the Senate Human Services Committee heard two bills that would adversely affect senior care services.
About the Legislation
SF 3844 would impose several mandates on assisted living communities, including installing AEDs and providing mandatory training on CPR; providing surveys and plans of corrections to prospective residents; and maintaining audit logs of summoning device response times (and producing upon request). An amendment was adopted that would allow MDH to approve any increases in housing or services above CPI-U, among other limitations. SF3844 was laid over for additional work within the committee’s jurisdiction.
SF 2972 would add duplicative disclosures and reporting requirements for assisted living communities and care centers upon changes in ownership; and prohibit practices like clinical interference, self-dealing or raiding assets for certain ownership types. An amendment was added by a bipartisan vote that would also add staffing standards to both care centers and assisted living facilities. These standards would be slightly different than those proposed by CMS in 2023 but would be equally difficult to achieve under current workforce shortages. SF2972 was passed to Judiciary for additional consideration.
Key Themes from the Hearing
- Consumer advocates are creating a narrative about confusing billing practices and using it as a proxy for unexplained rising costs in assisted living services.
- Lawmakers continue to confuse and conflate financial concepts like private equity, for-profit, and private investment. They also seem to have limited awareness about their own role in driving up the costs of care through unfunded mandates and fee hikes.
- Some committee members articulated concerns about the impact of SF2972, especially the staffing mandate provisions, but allowed the bill to move to its next stop for additional work.
LeadingAge Minnesota and its Imperative partner testified in opposition to both bills, as well as taking several questions (some hostile) from members of the committee. In our testimony and throughout the questioning, it was important to validate the experience of families and residents while providing factual and credible concerns on the policy proposals on the table.
If you would like to watch the hearing yourself, the recording is available here.
Opportunities for Action
The narrative presented on Wednesday is very troubling: residents and families are understandably concerned about the high costs of assisted living services. Furthermore, given our red tape-riddled regulatory system, it is also understandable that billing services may be unsatisfying to consumers.
LeadingAge Minnesota and its Imperative partner will continue to work with advocates and policymakers on reasonable approaches to elevating the resident experience, while also firmly pushing back against mandates that would decimate access to care, add onerous red tape, and further drive up costs for residents and families. As we continue to educate lawmakers:
- It may be time to review your organization’s billing practices. If you have questions about billing for assisted living services, contact Kelly Conrad at kconrad@leadingagemn.org or consider enrolling in our on-demand billing basics series for a refresher.
- Be sure you are signed up for our advocacy action alerts; an opportunity to contact lawmakers about our serious concerns with staffing standards and onerous mandates will be released later this week.
Grant Funding Available: Caregiver Support in Times of Uncertainty
On March 5, 2026 by Gina DiMaggio
At LeadingAge Minnesota, we know that our members are navigating an increasingly complex and uncertain environment.
Recent federal immigration enforcement actions have only heightened this uncertainty and created further disruption for a critical segment of Minnesota’s aging services workforce. In moments like this, our shared commitment to older adults and the caregivers who serve them matters more than ever.
Impact on Care Delivery
In recent weeks, many LAMN members have weathered growing fear and hesitation among caregivers stemming from visible or perceived immigration enforcement activity in communities across Minnesota. Some staff have expressed concern about simply coming to work. Others are carrying the emotional weight of worrying about family members and friends. Still others wonder what all of this signals about their future here in Minnesota.
These stressors do not stay at the door — they follow caregivers into their places of work, affecting wellbeing, focus, and ultimately the stability of care delivery.
At the same time, Minnesota’s aging services field has little margin for additional workforce disruption. Nearly one in three Nursing Assistants in our state is an immigrant — significantly higher than the national average — and with more than 12,000 open caregiving positions statewide, providers cannot easily absorb further instability.
In response, the LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation moved quickly to secure supplemental philanthropic funding to stand up a rapid-response grant program that puts flexible resources directly into the hands of our members to support caregivers during this critical moment.
Caregiver Support in Times of Uncertainty Grant Program
This responsive grant opportunity is designed to rapidly deploy flexible funding to provider members to support caregivers and stabilize operations during this period of heightened uncertainty and disruption. We’re sharing some key details about the opportunity below. More information can be found in the full application link below.
Key Details:
- Application Deadline: March 16 at Noon
- Funding Period: April–August 2026
- Total Funding Available: $410,000
- Maximum Award Amount: $25,000 per physical site/campus
Eligible Applicants: Current LeadingAge Minnesota provider members, including care centers, assisted living, home care, home and community-based services, independent living, and adult day providers.
Why This Matters
Across Minnesota, aging services providers are experiencing a moment that echoes the early days of COVID-19:
- Caregivers are facing fear and uncertainty
- Circumstances are evolving rapidly
- Providers must continue delivering essential care under unprecedented strain
Protecting continuity of care, supporting caregiver safety and wellbeing, maintaining operational stability, and preventing further workforce erosion are essential to ensuring access to quality care for older adults and families across Minnesota.
This initiative reflects the LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation’s strategic priority to grow a high-quality, sustainable workforce statewide. It also builds upon our broader work to support immigrant and refugee caregivers who are essential to the strength and future of Minnesota’s aging services sector.
Next Steps
This opportunity is supported by external philanthropic funding designated specifically to help providers implement community-informed solutions that address immediate caregiver safety, stability, and wellbeing needs. LAMF is granting these resources directly to members to strengthen workforce capacity and sustainability across the state.
We encourage you to review the full RFP and consider how this opportunity could support your staff and strengthen your organization during this critical time. Our goal is to move quickly so resources can reach caregivers as soon as possible.
Together, we will continue to stand with caregivers and ensure that Minnesota’s older adults receive the quality care they deserve.
New QUEST Report Available: Third Quarter Insights
On March 5, 2026 by Julie Apold
The LeadingAge Minnesota QUEST Report for the third quarter, 2025 is now available, providing members with timely insights into trends shaping the senior care sector.
This quarterly report brings together key data points to help organizations better understand performance across several critical areas:
- Financial indicators offer insight into the fiscal health of the sector and help organizations assess economic sustainability.
- Workforce metrics highlight trends in staffing, engagement, and workforce stability.
- Survey and compliance findings provide a snapshot of regulatory performance and areas requiring attention.
- Quality measures showcase progress and opportunities for improvement in delivering high-quality care and services.
New This Quarter
A new section on Assisted Living Substantiated Complaints has been added to this quarter’s report. This section highlights the number of complaints by category and provides analysis of complaint reports, along with organizational strategies to help address key issues and strengthen quality and compliance efforts.
Turning Data Into Improvement
The QUEST Report goes beyond numbers. It includes expert analysis of data gathered from multiple sources, including the LeadingAge Minnesota Data Portal, assisted living licensure data, CMS nursing home deficiency data, and CMS Five-Star quality data.
In addition to charts and statistics, the report highlights practical strategies organizations can explore internally to address emerging trends and opportunities for improvement.
As an association committed to advancing quality, transparency, and data-informed decision making, LeadingAge Minnesota provides the QUEST Report to help you measure what matters and strengthen services for the people you serve.
Share Your Feedback
We welcome your feedback on how you use the QUEST Report and how it can continue to evolve to support your work. Contact Julie Apold with your suggestions.
If your organization is not already contributing data to the LeadingAge Minnesota Data Portal, contact Jeff Bostic or Julie Apold to learn more.
State News
What Adult Day Providers Should Know About On-Site Revalidation Screening Visits
On March 5, 2026 by Kelly Conrad
To strengthen program integrity and address concerns about waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicaid programs, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) has designated 13 provider categories as “high-risk,” including Adult Day services. As a result, Adult Day providers must complete an off-cycle revalidation by May 31, 2026 in order to remain enrolled in Minnesota Health Care Programs (MHCP).
Although MHCP providers typically revalidate enrollment every five years, DHS is requiring this additional revalidation for providers in high-risk categories.
The Revalidation Process
Adult Day providers must complete the following steps:
- Verify credentials and compliance by submitting required documentation through the Minnesota Provider Screening and Enrollment Portal (MPSE)
- Complete fingerprint-based background studies for all direct and indirect owners with 5% or more ownership
- Pay a $750 application fee (applications will not be processed without payment)
- Participate in an on-site screening visit, which may be unannounced
Preparing for the Screening Visit
Beginning this week, DHS will begin calling providers who are included in off-cycle revalidation. These are legitimate calls and will come from 651-431-2700.
During these calls, DHS will:
- Notify providers that they are subject to the revalidation process
- Direct providers to submit required documentation
Calls will occur during normal business hours, and DHS will not request protected health information during these calls.
What to Expect During Screening Visits
As part of the revalidation process, Adult Day providers will receive a screening visit between now and May 31, 2026. These visits are federally required for high-risk provider types and do not indicate suspected wrongdoing.
Once DHS confirms that steps 1–3 of the revalidation process listed above are complete, MHCP will conduct an unannounced site visit within 60 days.
Visits are conducted by authorized representatives from DHS or the Office of Inspector General (OIG) and typically last less than an hour.
During the visit, representatives may verify:
- Business location and posted hours
- That Adult Day services are being provided as enrolled
- Operational status of the program
- MHCP enrollment documentation
- The general business environment
Providers should ensure an owner, manager, or designee is available and that staff know how to respond if a DHS representative arrives.
Screeners do not interview participants, conduct clinical reviews, or make enforcement decisions during the visit.
After the Visit
Following the screening visit, DHS will review its findings and notify providers of the outcome. Possible results include:
- No further action is needed
- Additional clarification is required
- Corrective action is necessary
Keeping enrollment information current and documentation organized can help ensure the revalidation process goes smoothly.
Questions or Assistance
You can learn more at Minnesota Revalidate. For questions or support, providers may the MHCP Provider Resource Center at 651-431-2700 or 800-366-5411.
High Demand for Assisted Living Competitive Grant
On March 5, 2026 by Kelly Conrad
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) reports strong interest in the new Assisted Living Competitive Grant Program, highlighting the significant demand for resources that support innovation and improvements in assisted living settings.
MDH received more than 800 Letters of Intent, representing over $60 million in requested funding, while approximately $3.3 million is currently available for grants.
For assisted living providers, this program represents a valuable opportunity to bring new ideas to life. Grants like these can help support projects that improve resident quality of life, strengthen services, enhance staff training, or test new approaches to care. Providers may want to consider how additional funding could help advance a project they have been hoping to launch or expand.
Application Open Date
The online application will open Monday, March 16.
To help potential applicants better understand the opportunity and determine whether to apply, MDH will host an informational webinar on Thursday, March 19 at 1 p.m. via Webex. During the session, MDH will review the application process, walk through the application itself, and explain how proposals will be evaluated and scored. The webinar will be recorded and posted to the Assisted Living Competitive Grant Program webpage within seven to ten business days.
Click on this link to join the webinar on Thursday, March 19 at 1 p.m.
Providers who may benefit from this funding are encouraged to consider applying and take advantage of this opportunity. Additional details and updates will continue to be posted on the program webpage and FAQ.
Questions can be directed to assistedlivinggrant.mdh@state.mn.us.
Explore the full range of grant opportunities available through LeadingAge Minnesota’s Grant Grid to see what funding could move your next project forward.
Federal News
Advocating For Minnesota Seniors on Capitol Hill
On March 5, 2026 by Kelly Conrad
Last week, Kari Thurlow, LeadingAge Minnesota’s President and CEO and Kelly Conrad, Director of Assisted Living Services, joined Argentum in Washington, D.C. to advocate for policies that strengthen senior living communities and support older adults across Minnesota and the nation.
We met with staff who work with Representative Tom Emmer, Senator Amy Klobuchar, and Senator Tina Smith to discuss bipartisan legislation focused on three critical priorities: promoting senior socialization and longevity, helping seniors afford long-term care, and addressing workforce shortages in aging services.
Our conversations centered on five key bills designed to improve the lives of older adults and those who serve them.
Promoting Senior Socialization and Longevity
To address the growing public health crisis of loneliness and isolation, we discussed the Care Across Generations Act (H.R. 1812) and the Social Engagement and Network Initiatives for Older Relief (SENIOR) Act (S. 473). Research from the National Institute on Aging shows that the health risks of chronic loneliness are comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes per day, and social isolation is associated with a 50% increased risk of developing dementia. These bipartisan proposals support intergenerational engagement and further study the impact of isolation—helping communities create innovative solutions that keep older adults connected and thriving.
Helping Seniors Afford Long-Term Care
We also advocated for policies that help families better manage the high cost of care. With more than two-thirds of Americans expected to need long-term care in their lifetime—and 40% of baby boomers reporting little to no retirement savings—the need for financial flexibility is urgent. The Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S. 1565 / H.R. 138) would allow families to use tax-advantaged health savings and flexible spending accounts to cover medical expenses for aging parents, providing meaningful relief to caregivers.
Workforce Shortages in Aging Services
Finally, we addressed one of the most pressing challenges facing senior living providers: workforce shortages. America’s aging population is expanding rapidly, and more than 20 million long-term care workers will be needed by 2040 to meet demand. We urged support for the Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (S. 492 / H.R. 1177), which incentivizes employers to hire individuals facing employment barriers, and the Essential Workers for Economic Advancement Act (H.R. 5494), which proposes a market-driven temporary worker visa program for positions that remain unfilled.
Thank you to LeadingAge Minnesota members Chris Hyatt and Pam Engle of New Perspectives, along with Brett Anderson of Ebenezer, for participating in these productive and thoughtful meetings, which demonstrated bipartisan commitment to strengthening services for older adults. We were proud to share the real-world experiences of senior living communities and the residents and families they serve. By bringing these priorities directly to our federal leaders, we help ensure that the voices of older adults remain front and center in national policy discussions.
Advocacy is essential to building a future where older adults can live with dignity, connection, and access to quality care—and we are honored to be part of that effort.
Notable News
Save on Hiring with the AgingServicesJobs.org Member Discount
On March 5, 2026 by Anna Mowry
Finding the right talent is critical — and LeadingAge Minnesota members have an exclusive opportunity to save while recruiting. Members can post open positions on AgingServicesJobs.org, the premier job board for aging services employers, at a significantly reduced rate.
Member-Only Discount
LeadingAge Minnesota members receive a discounted rate when posting jobs on AgingServicesJobs.org. By using the coupon code Aging2026 at checkout, the cost drops from $99 to just $39 per posting.
This specialized job board connects employers with qualified candidates who are interested in careers in aging services, helping organizations reach a broader and more targeted talent pool. This member-exclusive discount is available now through the end of the year, making it a great opportunity to post multiple openings and maximize your recruitment budget.
Why Post on AgingServicesJobs.org
Posting your positions on AgingServicesJobs.org helps your organization:
- Share openings with a wide network of diversity groups, job boards, professional organizations, and educational institutions
- Manage job postings and applicants through an easy-to-use platform
- Search a resume database using filters to find qualified candidates
- Customize your employer profile to highlight the benefits of working at your organization
- Upgrade listings to feature your postings and increase visibility
How to Post a Job
Getting started is quick and easy:
- Visit AgingServicesJobs.org
- Click Post a Job
- Create an account (it only takes a few seconds)
- Add your open positions
- Enter the discount code Aging2026 at checkout
Questions?
If you have questions about the job board or posting positions, reach out to Anna Mowry, Director of Workforce Solutions.
Member News
2026 Scholarships Available Through LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation
On March 5, 2026 by Lori Meyer
The LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation is excited to offer almost $60,000 in educational scholarships to eligible caregivers and other employees of our member organizations for 2026. Investing in the professional development of the aging services workforce is more important now than it has ever been.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be 17 years of age or older
- Be employed by a provider member of LeadingAge Minnesota (care center, senior housing, assisted living, adult day, etc.)
- Be currently enrolled (or enroll no later than fall of 2026) in an accredited post-secondary institution of higher education
- Complete the online scholarship application
- Provide two letters of recommendation
Scholarships are a great way to help your employees achieve their higher education goals and advance their careers within the aging services field where they are so needed. LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation scholarship awards range from $500 to $2,500. We’ve created a flyer to promote the scholarship program with your employees.
Further information and the application can be accessed here.
Applications must be received by 4 p.m. on Monday, May 11.
These scholarships are made possible thanks to the generosity of the organizations and individuals who support the Foundation’s 2025 Annual Golf Tournament. Thank you!
Saint Therese Receives Approval to Expand Corcoran Senior Community
On March 5, 2026 by LeadingAge Minnesota
Less than two years after opening Saint Therese of Corcoran, Saint Therese is expanding its footprint in the fast-growing west metro city. Last week, the Corcoran City Council approved the new construction that will add 31 new independent living apartments to Saint Therese’s existing community that currently has independent living, assisted living and memory care apartments.
“We have been incredibly grateful for the warm welcome we have received in Corcoran. The response to our community has exceeded expectations, and our independent living apartments filled much faster than we anticipated ,” said Craig Abbott, president and CEO of Saint Therese. “While we always planned for the possibility of future growth here, we didn’t expect to be moving forward with an expansion this soon. It speaks to the need in this area and to the strong connections we have already built.”
Groundbreaking is expected to begin this summer. Saint Therese will begin accepting reservations in March, with construction slated for completion in summer or fall 2027.
The expansion will be located on the west side of the existing Saint Therese community and will include 31 new independent living apartments. The addition will connect to the current building through an amenity-rich enclosed walkway designed to bring residents and families together.
The connector will feature a family room, kitchen, community room, kid’s corner, outdoor game space and conservatory. Pope Design Group is once again serving as architect and interior design team on the project, and the general contractor is CBS Construction Services.
New Americans Workforce Resources Now Available for Members
On March 5, 2026 by Kirstan Ketter
LeadingAge Minnesota members now have access to a new collection of workforce resources to help New Americans succeed in aging services careers.
The New Americans Workforce Resources page was developed by the LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation, with funding support from the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) GEAR Division. The page provides one central location for helpful resources to support communication, onboarding, recruitment, and workforce development in aging services.
These resources were informed by two advisory groups: the Immigrant Voices Advisory Council, made up of New Americans working in aging services, and the Employer Voices Advisory Council, composed of aging services leaders from across Minnesota. Their insights helped identify practical tools to support both employees and employers. Take a moment to explore the page’s resources and see how they can support your team.
Tools for Members
New American Resource Map
An interactive map highlighting organizations across Minnesota that support New American individuals and their families. Use this map to connect employees to community resources such as language learning, employment support, basic needs, and family services.
Multilingual Audio Glossary of Aging Services Terminology
A multilingual audio glossary that helps staff learn common aging services terms and definitions. The tool is available in English, Hmong, Spanish, and Somali.
Multilingual Video Series for Recruitment, Retention, and Advancement
A five-part documentary-style video series introducing viewers to working in Minnesota’s aging services settings. The videos are available in eight languages: English, French, Hmong, Oromo, Spanish, Somali, Swahili, and Ukrainian.
OnTrack Nursing Assistant Learning Materials
Through a partnership with OnTrack, translated learning materials are now available in Spanish, Somali, and Hmong to support learners participating in the OnTrack Nursing Assistant training program.
Explore the New Americans Workforce Resources page: New Americans Workforce Resources | LeadingAge Minnesota
Have You Registered for LeadingAge Minnesota’s 2026 Day at the Capitol?
On March 5, 2026 by Kayla Khang
Legislators need to hear directly from long-term care providers. Day at the Capitol is your opportunity to make that happen.
Registration is now open for LeadingAge Minnesota’s 2026 Day at the Capitol. This annual event gives members a structured, strategic way to:
- Share real-world stories about workforce, funding, and regulatory challenges
- Meet face-to-face with your local legislators
- Strengthen relationships that shape policy decisions
- Stand alongside colleagues from across the state
Whether you’re new to advocacy or a Capitol regular, your voice matters. Personal stories and local connections are what move policy forward.
- Wednesday, April 22, 2026
- 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Minnesota History Center (345 W Kellogg Blvd, Saint Paul, MN 55102)
Registration closes April 1, 2026, but we encourage members to register now. Registering now increases the likelihood that LeadingAge Minnesota can schedule a meeting with your legislators while you’re at the Capitol.
We look forward to seeing strong member representation at the Capitol this April! Please reach out to Kayla Khang, LeadingAge Minnesota Grassroots & Political Action Manager at kkhang@leadingagemn.org with any questions.
Regional Operations Network Kicks Off, Sets Bi-Monthly Meeting Schedule
On March 5, 2026 by Jessica Lacher
LeadingAge Minnesota’s new Regional Operations Network officially launched on Feb. 26, bringing together members from across the state who serve in regional operational roles.
The inaugural meeting provided an opportunity for participants to connect with peers, discuss shared priorities, and help shape the direction of the network. As part of the discussion, attendees voted on the group’s ongoing structure and schedule.
Ongoing Schedule Established
The network will meet every other month on the fourth Thursday at 9 a.m. via Zoom.
The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 23, at 9 a.m.
Member-Driven Format
As with all LeadingAge Minnesota networks, the Regional Operations Network is designed to be member-led and member-driven, creating space for professionals to share ideas, troubleshoot challenges, and learn from one another in a supportive environment.
How to Participate
Any member working in a regional operations role at a LeadingAge Minnesota member organization is encouraged to participate. To be added to the calendar invites and receive the Zoom link, please email Jessica Lacher.
Education Solutions
Implications of Minnesota’s Landlord-Tenant Law in Senior Living: March 25 Webinar
On March 5, 2026 by Sharon Hollister
Join us on March 25 from Noon – 1 p.m. for an important webinar designed for independent living and assisted living providers.
This session will provide a clear overview of Minnesota’s Landlord Tenant Law, including lease and assisted living contract requirements, and recent legal updates impacting senior housing. Gain practical insights to help ensure your community remains compliant and well-prepared.
Operators, directors, and managers of independent living and assisted living communities will benefit from this presentation.
Presenter: Shelli Bakken, LALD, LSW, Director of Housing Policy and Expert Support, LeadingAge Minnesota
Questions? Contact our team at Education@LeadingAgeMN.org
Take the Next Step in Your Leadership Journey – Three Exceptional Opportunities
On March 5, 2026 by Sharon Hollister
LeadingAge Minnesota’s 2026 leadership programs provide practical tools, expert faculty, and supportive peer learning to help leaders thrive in today’s aging services environment:
Nurse Leadership Program – open registration, program begins March 18
A 10-day, five-month program is specifically designed for nurse leaders in skilled nursing, assisted living, and home care settings who are new to — or growing into — executive leadership roles.
Operations Certificate Program – open registration
A 10-day interactive program designed specifically for professionals in long-term care settings, including assisted living and care centers, to build essential knowledge and practical skills to manage operations effectively.
Leadership Academy – application deadline March 9.
A nine-month, cohort-based program (May–November 2026) delivering high-impact, mission-aligned leadership development for emerging and mid-level leaders in aging services
Invest in your growth, strengthen your organization, and help shape the future of aging services.
Questions? Contact our team at education@leadingagemn.org.