Connecticut House Bill HB05113

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/21
• Refer: 1/12/21

Caption

An Act Requiring Able-bodied Medicaid Recipients To Work Or Volunteer.

Impact

The proposed changes to Title 17b of the general statutes would necessitate the Commissioner of Social Services to pursue a waiver under Section 1115 of the Social Security Act. By establishing a work or volunteer requirement, the bill intends to foster greater self-sufficiency among recipients, promoting the idea that assistance should not come without responsibilities. Supporters argue that this could lead to improved economic outcomes for individuals and families, as well as a potential reduction in state healthcare expenditures associated with Medicaid.

Summary

House Bill 05113 is an initiative aimed at mandating that able-bodied individuals receiving Medicaid benefits must engage in work or volunteer activities as a condition for their continued eligibility. The bill was introduced with the goal of enhancing workforce participation among Medicaid recipients and reducing dependency on government assistance. This policy aligns with similar reforms seen in other states where work requirements have been implemented as a strategy to incentivize recipients to secure employment.

Contention

However, this bill has been met with opposition from various advocacy groups and some legislators who argue that imposing work requirements could unfairly penalize those in genuine need of assistance, particularly individuals with disabilities, caretakers, or those facing barriers to employment such as lack of transportation or childcare. Detractors claim that the imposition of such requirements could lead to increased poverty and health disparities, as individuals may lose their healthcare coverage due to inability to meet the work or volunteer conditions, essentially setting up a perilous situation for the most vulnerable populations.