Connecticut Senate Bill SB00835

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/19/23

Caption

An Act Increasing The Minimum Amount Of Resources That May Be Retained By The Spouse Of An Institutionalized Medicaid Recipient.

Impact

The enactment of SB00835 would have a significant impact on the financial planning of couples where one partner is institutionalized and the other remains in the community. By increasing the asset retention limit, the bill aims to alleviate the financial burden on the community spouse, potentially enabling them to maintain a more stable living situation without the fear of losing their home or being plunged into poverty due to their partner's medical expenses. This change could promote better financial outcomes for families navigating long-term care needs.

Summary

SB00835 is a legislative proposal aimed at increasing the minimum amount of resources that can be retained by the spouse of an institutionalized Medicaid recipient. Specifically, the bill seeks to amend Title 17b of the General Statutes to raise this minimum retention limit to sixty thousand dollars. This adjustment is intended to provide additional financial security for spouses who remain in the community while their partner receives institutional Medicaid services.

Contention

While supporters laud the bill for enhancing protections for spouses of institutionalized individuals, there may be points of contention revolving around the implications for Medicaid funding and resources. Critics might argue that increasing the asset retention limit could lead to higher costs for the state Medicaid program by allowing couples to shelter more assets. The discussion may also delve into broader themes regarding Medicaid reform and the balance between ensuring adequate support for families while maintaining the sustainability of the Medicaid system.