Advocacy
At the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota, we are dedicated to raising awareness and securing resources to support people living with epilepsy. Our advocacy efforts focus on long-term, systemic change that improves health outcomes, increases access to care, and fosters an inclusive community for all individuals affected by epilepsy.
Your involvement can make a difference. Join us in advocating for the epilepsy community by reaching out to your legislators, participating in advocacy campaigns, and supporting our work through donations.
Together, we can help elevate epilepsy as a public health priority so no one faces epilepsy alone.
Current Legislative Priorities
Minnesota Department of Health Epilepsy Data Coordination
Bill Numbers: HF 1765 and SF 1538
The Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota is pleased to share that our 2025 policy priority, legislation establishing the state’s first dedicated effort to coordinate epilepsy and seizure-disorder related data at the Minnesota Department of Health, has passed (SF 1538 / HF 1765, as amended)
This marks a significant advancement in how epilepsy is recognized and addressed as a public health issue in Minnesota. The new effort is the result of years of work to highlight the intersection of epilepsy with healthcare access, community engagement, and health equity.
Key components of the new effort include:
- Annual collection and reporting of statewide data on epilepsy and seizures
- Monitoring of diagnosis rates, health outcomes, and seizure-related mortality
- Identification of disparities in care, particularly in underserved communities
- Development of data-driven strategies to improve access to services and care
- Increased public awareness and efforts to reduce epilepsy-related stigma
This legislation represents an important foundation for future policy development and cross-sector collaboration aimed at improving quality of life for individuals affected by epilepsy across the state. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey.
National Advocacy Efforts
Check out the advocacy efforts of our national affiliate, the Epilepsy Foundation, in Washington, D.C.!
Easy Steps to Advocate
Advocacy Resources
What to Say to your Legislator
We’ve partnered with Fredrikson & Byron to show how easy it is to meet with your legislator. Our video shows what to expect when meeting with legislators and gives tips on what to say (and what not to say) during a meeting.Telling Your Story App
The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Disabilities has a free tool for advocates to compose and practice their story. The app guides users through the steps, from introducing yourself to identifying the specific issue, to the best methods for presenting a compelling story.Partners in Policymaking Online Course
The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Disabilities offers this online course to help individuals create positive change through advocacy. The three-hour self-study course includes information about the legislative process, public policy, advocacy, and organizing.Communicate with your legislator in Spanish, Somali, or Hmong
To get an interpreter, your legislator and/or their staff have to make a request with the Legislative Coordinating Commission (LCC). If you'd like help contacting your legislator through an interpreter, please reach out in your preferred language to EFMN's Director of Health Equity, Angela Bowles Edwards at 651-368-6209 (call/text) or abedwards@efmn.org.Voter Resources
Find information on how to register and where to vote. Learn about what is on the ballot and find the election results.Thriving with Epilepsy
Meet Kyah Altiere
Kyah become involved in advocacy after being prescribed toxic levels of her anti-seizure medication. She became more involved in her medical care and started advocating for others with epilepsy.
Kyah' Story
Get involved with EFMN
Donate your time to make a difference in someone else’s life. EFMN has year-round volunteer opportunities for a variety of programs and events with the epilepsy community.
Volunteer