Connecticut Senate Bill SB00391

Connecticut 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/12
• Refer: 3/8/12
• Report Pass: 3/22/12
• Refer: 4/4/12
• Report Pass: 4/11/12
• Refer: 4/18/12
• Report Pass: 4/23/12
• Report Pass: 4/24/12
• Engrossed: 5/2/12
• Report Pass: 5/4/12
• Chaptered: 5/30/12
• Enrolled: 6/1/12
• Passed: 6/15/12

Caption

An Act Expanding Access By Veterans To Public Assistance Programs.

Impact

The enactment of SB 391 is expected to impact state laws by adjusting the eligibility criteria for various public assistance programs. By excluding Aid and Attendance pension benefits from income calculations, the bill aims to expand the safety net for veterans and their families, thereby promoting economic stability. This change could enable more veterans to qualify for necessary assistance without having their financial support from the federal government counted against them, which could ultimately lead to improved health and welfare outcomes for this population.

Summary

Senate Bill 391, known as An Act Expanding Access By Veterans To Public Assistance Programs, aims to improve access to public assistance for veterans and their surviving spouses by allowing certain pension benefits to be disregarded when determining eligibility for state assistance programs. This is particularly relevant for programs such as medical assistance, Medicare savings, and energy assistance. The bill's implementation is contingent upon compliance with federal law, allowing the Commissioner of Social Services to potentially amend the state Medicaid plan or seek federal waivers as necessary. The bill reflects a legislative intent to better support a demographic that has often faced financial challenges due to their service.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 391 appears to be positive among legislators and advocates for veterans, who view the bill as a necessary step towards rectifying long-standing inequities in how veterans' benefits are treated in state assistance programs. The unanimous support during voting, with a count of 36 yeas to 0 nays, indicates broad bipartisan agreement on the need to enhance public assistance for this group. This reflects a growing recognition of the importance of supporting veterans, particularly in their transition to civilian life.

Contention

While the bill received overwhelming support, the broader implications of excluding certain income sources from eligibility assessments may trigger future debates over welfare reform. Critics may argue about the potential for increased state expenditures or whether similar exemptions should be extended to other groups. The bill could set a precedence that raises questions about equitable treatment of various populations within public assistance programs, highlighting a crucial area for ongoing legislative discussion.