Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Tim Pugmire
ST. PAUL, Minn.

Report may boost Minn. unionizing effort

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

Efforts to unionize government-subsidized personal care assistants in Minnesota are getting some help from a national advocacy group.

The New York-based Paraprofessional Healthcare Institute released a report on Friday that highlighted the high turnover rate in the broader direct-care work force, due in large part to low wages. It also warns that the growing demand for home health care cannot be met under current conditions. The Service Employees International Union paid for the research.

During a news conference, DFL Rep. Tina Liebling of Rochester said a union could help address the problems outlined in the report.

"I certainly believe that when people are organized, when they are able to bargain collectively, that it lifts their standard of living and that that is good for all of us," Liebling said. "So I can certainly see this as one path."

Personal care assistants need legislation passed to allow them to organize. Liebling said she is not directly involved in creating that legislation.

• Follow Tim Pugmire on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/timpugmire