Researcher: JP Page 1 3/24/21
OLR Bill Analysis
SB 909
AN ACT CONCERNING CHANGES TO THE HUSKY B PROGRAM.
SUMMARY
This bill prohibits copayments under HUSKY B (the state’s
Children’s Health Insurance Program, see BACKGROUND) from
exceeding copayments paid by active state employees enrolled in one
of the state’s point of enrollment health care plans. Under current law,
these copayments must be equal.
The bill also repeals the HUSKY Plus program, which provides
supplemental coverage for HUSKY B enrollees with intensive physical
health needs that exceed the basic benefit package (e.g., provides
power wheelchairs as a service benefit). It makes several technical and
conforming changes to remove program references in statute.
EFFECTIVE DATE: Upon passage
BACKGROUND
HUSKY B
HUSKY B provides medically necessary health care coverage for
uninsured children under age 19 in families with household incomes
between 196% and 318% of the federal poverty limit who do not
qualify for HUSKY A (Medicaid). Unlike Medicaid, it is a capped
program (i.e., a block grant), and, as such, the federal government
annually determines the share of program funding it will pay to the
state each year.
Families receiving HUSKY B services must contribute towards the
care cost, and these contributions rise as family income rises. There are
no cost-sharing requirements, however, for members who qualify for
HUSKY Plus services.
COMMITTEE ACTION 2021SB-00909-R000129-BA.DOCX
Researcher: JP Page 2 3/24/21
Human Services Committee
Joint Favorable
Yea 19 Nay 0 (03/09/2021)