Connecticut Senate Bill SB00416

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

An Act Concerning Alleviating Wait Lists For Autism Spectrum Disorder Medicaid Waiver Services.

Impact

The implementation of SB00416 would have a significant impact on state laws concerning healthcare and support services for individuals with autism. By enabling more individuals to receive necessary services without enduring lengthy wait times, it would not only improve the quality of life for those affected by autism but also provide crucial support to families. The increased access may lead to better overall outcomes in development and integration into society for those individuals.

Summary

Senate Bill 00416 seeks to address the ongoing issue of wait lists for Medicaid waiver services specifically for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The bill aims to expand the availability of essential services by either creating a new Medicaid waiver program or modifying the existing program to incorporate a flexible dollar threshold tailored to individual needs. This legislative effort reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need for timely access to care for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its intent to alleviate the challenges faced by families waiting for autism services, there are potential points of contention regarding budgetary implications. Expanding Medicaid waivers or introducing a new program could lead to increased government spending, raising concerns among fiscal conservatives about the sustainability of such funding in the long term. Additionally, there may be discussions surrounding how to effectively implement flexible funding options while ensuring quality and consistency in the services provided.