Connecticut Senate Bill SB00742

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

An Act Concerning A Study Of The Impact Of Marriage On Eligibility Of Persons With Disabilities For Public Assistance Benefits.

Impact

The study required by SB00742 aims to assess whether the current eligibility criteria serve as a disincentive for persons with disabilities when considering marriage. If significant issues are found, the Commissioner shall report back to the legislature with recommendations for changes to make eligibility criteria more accommodating, aligning with federal law. This could have broader implications for how public assistance programs are structured and who they serve, ensuring that marriage should not penalize individuals seeking necessary support.

Summary

SB00742 is an Act Concerning A Study Of The Impact Of Marriage On Eligibility Of Persons With Disabilities For Public Assistance Benefits. The bill mandates that the Commissioner of Social Services conduct a study on how the eligibility criteria for public assistance programs, such as medical assistance and supplemental nutrition assistance, may affect individuals with disabilities considering marriage. This action stems from concerns that existing eligibility rules might dissuade these individuals from marrying due to potential losses in public assistance benefits.

Contention

While the bill explicitly seeks only to gather data and report findings, it touches on sensitive areas of public assistance and social policy. Stakeholders may express differing views on the ramifications of changing eligibility criteria. Proponents may argue that the bill promotes fairness and encourages family structures, whereas opponents may worry about potential increases in public assistance costs or impacts on program integrity if rules are adapted in favor of more lenient criteria for married individuals.