Connecticut House Bill HB05492

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/15
• Refer: 1/16/15

Caption

An Act Concerning Working Persons With Disabilities.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5492 would have a significant impact on state laws governing medical assistance programs. By altering the eligibility criteria tied to asset limits, the bill would facilitate greater access to healthcare services for married couples with disabilities. This change directly addresses inequities in the existing assistance structure, where married individuals may face stricter financial thresholds compared to single applicants, thereby promoting a more inclusive approach to social support for families. The implications of this bill could also extend to the broader social safety net, potentially influencing policies related to disability support and healthcare accessibility across the state.

Summary

House Bill 5492 aims to amend the existing regulations concerning medical assistance for working persons with disabilities by waiving the fifteen-thousand-dollar asset limit specifically for married couples. The intent of this bill is to make medical assistance more accessible to working individuals who face disabilities, especially those who may have limited financial resources stemming from their marital status. By removing the asset limit, the legislation targets the barriers that prevent economically disadvantaged married couples from obtaining necessary medical assistance, thereby providing a more equitable support framework for working persons with disabilities.

Contention

While the bill's advocacy for greater accessibility is generally seen as positive, there may be points of contention regarding the financial implications of waiving asset limits for married couples. Critics may raise concerns about the potential increase in costs for social services or argue that such a move could set a precedent for further amendments that may strain state resources. The discussion surrounding HB 5492 could also highlight the balance between providing necessary support and maintaining sustainable funding for state assistance programs, distinctively showcasing the ongoing debate between expanding assistance and fiscal responsibility.