Connecticut Senate Bill SB00818

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/1/21
• Report Pass: 2/16/21
• Report Pass: 4/21/21
• Refer: 5/3/21
• Report Pass: 5/10/21
• Engrossed: 6/7/21
• Report Pass: 6/7/21

Caption

An Act Concerning A Study Of Permitting The Community Spouse Of An Institutionalized Medicaid Recipient To Retain The Maximum Amount Of Allowable Assets.

Impact

If enacted, SB 00818 could significantly impact state laws related to Medicaid and the regulations surrounding the assets of individuals whose spouses are receiving institutional care. By allowing the community spouse to retain more resources, the bill could prevent financial hardship and promote better living conditions for these individuals. It may also influence broader Medicaid policies and bring attention to the need for reform in how assets are treated under the current system.

Summary

Senate Bill 00818 aims to study the feasibility and costs associated with allowing a community spouse of an institutionalized Medicaid recipient to retain the maximum allowable assets, as defined by federal law. The bill mandates the Commissioner of Social Services to submit a report to the Joint Standing Committees of Aging and Appropriations by January 1, 2022. This move is intended to protect the financial stability of spouses who are not institutionalized while their partner is receiving Medicaid, thereby ensuring they are not left financially vulnerable due to the high costs of care.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 00818 appears to be supportive, especially from advocacy groups representing the elderly and individuals with disabilities. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step toward ensuring that community spouses are not left destitute when their partners require institutional care, highlighting the emotional and financial challenges faced by these families. However, there may also be concerns regarding the costs to the state associated with modifications to Medicaid regulations.

Contention

While there is notable support for the bill, potential points of contention could arise regarding the overall costs and capacity of the Medicaid program to accommodate such changes without impacting funding for other important services. Stakeholders may raise concerns about the implications on budget allocations and the potential unintended consequences that could affect Medicaid funding and availability.