Connecticut Senate Bill SB00170

Connecticut 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/8/25

Caption

An Act Requiring Able-bodied Recipients Of Public Assistance To Work Or Volunteer.

Impact

If enacted, SB00170 would amend existing laws under title 17b of the general statutes to introduce specific work or volunteer mandates for able-bodied adults receiving public assistance. This shift in policy could significantly transform the landscape of public assistance programs in the state by legally binding recipients to certain expectations regarding participation in the workforce. The proposal reflects a broader trend among some policymakers to link welfare benefits to work activities as a means of fostering economic independence.

Summary

SB00170 is a legislative proposal aimed at mandating able-bodied adult recipients of public assistance to engage in work or volunteer activities for a minimum of twenty hours per week. This initiative is designed to promote self-sufficiency among individuals who are receiving various types of support, including supplemental nutrition assistance and Medicaid. By requiring these recipients to participate in work or volunteer efforts, the state hopes to encourage a transition toward independence and reduce reliance on government aid.

Contention

The proposal is likely to spark discussion and contention across various stakeholder groups. Proponents argue that the bill encourages personal responsibility and could alleviate some of the funding burdens on public assistance programs. However, critics may suggest that this requirement is impractical or punitive, particularly for individuals facing barriers to employment, such as insufficient job training, childcare issues, or health concerns. As a result, the bill could face scrutiny regarding its fairness and the adequacy of support services available to assist individuals in meeting these requirements.