Researcher: ND Page 1 3/14/23
OLR Bill Analysis
SB 931
AN ACT EXPANDING ACCESS TO THE ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE
RESPITE CARE PROGRAM.
SUMMARY
Starting July 1, 2023, this bill expands eligibility for individuals with
Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders to participate in the state’s
Respite Care Program (see BACKGROUND). It does so by increasing
the program’s (1) annual income limit from $51,114 to $70,000 and (2)
annual liquid asset limit from $135,892 to $179,000. (Current income and
asset limits reflect annual Social Security cost of living adjustments.)
Under existing law, unchanged by the bill, participants cannot enroll in
the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders.
The bill also (1) eliminates the requirement that the Department of
Aging and Disability Services (ADS) commissioner operate the program
within available appropriations and (2) appropriates $1 million from
the General Fund to ADS, in each of FYs 24 and 25, to expand program
access.
Lastly, the bill makes technical changes.
EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2023
BACKGROUND
Statewide Respite Care Program
By law, the Respite Care Program provides respite for caregivers of
individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders. Program
participants may receive up to $7,500 in services annually, depending
on need. The program provides homemaker, personal care assistant,
adult day care, short-term medical and facility care, home health care,
and companion services. Participants may be required to pay a portion
of the cost. 2023SB-00931-R000066-BA.DOCX
Researcher: ND Page 2 3/14/23
COMMITTEE ACTION
Aging Committee
Joint Favorable
Yea 15 Nay 0 (02/28/2023)