Connecticut House Bill HB05997

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/13
• Refer: 1/24/13

Caption

An Act Concerning Funding For Health Care Services At Community Hospitals For The Uninsured And A Reduction In The State Earned Income Tax Credit.

Impact

The bill's primary impact will be on the funding structure for community hospitals, which are essential for providing care to uninsured patients. By channeling funds formerly allocated through the EITC into these hospitals, supporters of the bill argue that it will bolster the infrastructure needed to care for vulnerable populations. However, this shift could mean that lower-income earners receive less financial relief through tax credits, which may place additional financial strain on households already struggling to make ends meet.

Summary

House Bill 05997 proposes an adjustment in funding mechanisms for healthcare services aimed at uninsured individuals within community hospitals. The bill seeks to address budget deficits by reducing the state's earned income tax credit (EITC) from its current rate of 30% of the federal level down to 15%. This change is intended to reallocate funds to enhance the financial support that community hospitals receive for operating healthcare services that cater to those who are uninsured and unable to afford medical care.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB 05997 indicates notable points of contention among legislators. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to ensure that community hospitals can continue their vital services without being burdened by the increasing number of uninsured patients. Conversely, critics contend that reducing the EITC will disproportionately affect low-income families, arguing that the intended financial support to hospitals should not come at the cost of essential relief provided to the same demographic. Ultimately, this debate highlights the ongoing struggle to balance budgetary constraints while still addressing the healthcare needs of the population.