Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB06413

Introduced
2/14/13  
Refer
2/14/13  
Report Pass
4/2/13  
Refer
4/12/13  
Refer
4/12/13  
Report Pass
4/18/13  
Report Pass
4/18/13  
Refer
4/25/13  

Caption

An Act Concerning Medicaid Eligibility And The Identification And Recovery Of Assets.

Impact

The enactment of HB 6413 will lead to significant changes in how Medicaid eligibility is determined and enforced, particularly concerning asset transfers made to qualify for benefits. By enhancing the powers of the Department of Social Services and nursing facilities to pursue debts for unpaid care, the bill aims to recover costs associated with Medicaid services. This could lead to stricter scrutiny of financial decisions made by applicants and recipients. Furthermore, certain asset protections for veterans and their families are also specified, which may ensure that they receive due consideration in the eligibility process.

Summary

House Bill 6413 addresses issues related to Medicaid eligibility and the identification and recovery of assets. The bill aims to define the eligibility criteria for medical assistance, particularly for individuals with limited income and resources. It establishes a framework for evaluating the income and assets of applicants, allowing medical assistance for individuals whose income does not exceed a specific percentage of state assistance. The bill includes provisions for nursing homes regarding the reporting of financial debts due to services provided to residents who may have transferred assets to qualify for Medicaid benefits.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 6413 appears to be mixed, reflecting concerns over the balance between preventing Medicaid fraud and ensuring access to care for vulnerable populations. While supporters of the bill argue that it is a necessary step to safeguard state resources and ensure that Medicaid is used appropriately, critics raise concerns about the potential additional burdens placed on families and individuals seeking assistance. The discussions imply a broader debate about how to effectively manage healthcare costs while providing adequate support to those in need.

Contention

Several points of contention have emerged regarding HB 6413, particularly centered around the definition of asset transfers and the ability of nursing homes to pursue legal actions for debts. Critics emphasize that the provisions permitting nursing homes to take civil action against individuals could lead to undue financial stress on families seeking long-term care for their loved ones. Additionally, the potential impact on veterans benefits and how the asset recovery provisions will be implemented has sparked debate among legislators and advocates. Overall, the bill signifies a shift in how Medicaid eligibility and asset management will be approached within the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT SB00310

An Act Concerning Compensation For Family Caregivers, Retroactive Eligibility For Medicaid And Treatment Of Assets Discovered After An Application For Medical Assistance.

CT SB00344

An Act Concerning Certain Federal Veterans' Benefits And Income Eligibility Determinations For Certain Public Assistance Programs.

CT HB05402

An Act Excluding From Veterans' Income Calculations Certain Benefits Payments For Purposes Of Eligibility For Certain State And Municipal Programs.

CT HB05053

An Act Concerning The Governor's Budget Recommendations For Health And Human Services.

CT HB05523

An Act Concerning Allocations Of Federal American Rescue Plan Act Funds And Provisions Related To General Government, Human Services, Education And The Biennium Ending June 30, 2025.

CT SB00222

An Act Concerning Changes To The Paid Family And Medical Leave Statutes.

CT SB00313

An Act Concerning Continuous Medicaid Eligibility For Children Under The Age Of Six.

CT SB00311

An Act Concerning The Connecticut Home-care Program For The Elderly.

CT HB05001

An Act Supporting Connecticut Seniors And The Improvement Of Nursing And Home-based Care.

CT SB00395

An Act Concerning The Reporting Of Medical Debt.

Similar Bills

CT SB00394

An Act Concerning Medicaid Eligibility And The Identification And Recovery Of Assets.

CT SB00776

An Act Requiring Fairness For Families In Medicaid Eligibility And Reimbursement Determinations.

CT SB00913

An Act Requiring Fairness For Families In Medicaid Eligibility And Reimbursement Determinations.

NJ S1817

Revises procedures for processing incomplete Medicaid applications; exempts asset transfers of up to $500 per month during look back period for determining eligibility for long-term care services.

NJ A3565

Revises procedures for processing incomplete Medicaid applications; exempts asset transfers of up to $500 per month during look back period for determining eligibility for long-term care services.

NJ A4466

Revises procedures for processing incomplete Medicaid applications; exempts asset transfers of up to $500 per month during look back period for determining eligibility for long-term care services.

NJ A4091

Makes County Option Hospital Fee Pilot Program permanent and expands definition of "participating county" under program.

CT SB00310

An Act Concerning Compensation For Family Caregivers, Retroactive Eligibility For Medicaid And Treatment Of Assets Discovered After An Application For Medical Assistance.