Connecticut Senate Bill SB00034

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/23
• Refer: 1/12/23

Caption

An Act Increasing The Minimum Amount Of Resources A Community Spouse Of An Institutionalized Medicaid Recipient May Retain.

Impact

If enacted, SB00034 would bring significant changes to the existing Medicaid policies as they relate to community spouses. By establishing a minimum resource allowance, the bill would provide a guarantee that community spouses can retain a more substantial amount of their assets, which could substantially alleviate financial strain for families dealing with the costs associated with long-term care. This modification aligns state law with federal standards, which may enhance the state's commitment to supporting families affected by the high costs of healthcare among their loved ones.

Summary

SB00034 is a proposed bill aimed at increasing the minimum amount of resources that a community spouse of an institutionalized Medicaid recipient may retain. Specifically, the bill proposes to amend Title 17b of the general statutes to set this minimum resource allowance at sixty thousand dollars. The intention behind this legislative change is to ensure that spouses of individuals who have been permanently admitted to nursing facilities or medical institutions are not pushed into financial hardship while caring for their families. It seeks to protect the financial stability of community spouses during intensive healthcare needs.

Contention

The proposal could spark discussions regarding the implications for state expenditures on Medicaid. Some lawmakers may question the fiscal responsibility of increasing the resource allowance, considering potential budgetary constraints and the need for funding other essential state services. On the other hand, advocates for seniors and family caregivers may argue that the financial burden on families is unsustainable and that this bill is a vital step toward ensuring fair treatment for community spouses. Notably, the bill also includes a mandate for the Commissioner of Social Services to report on the number of beneficiaries and the associated costs to the state by July 1, 2024, allowing for transparency and accountability as the law is implemented.