Connecticut House Bill HB05403

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/20
• Refer: 2/27/20
• Report Pass: 3/10/20

Caption

An Act Excluding Certain Veterans' Benefits When Determining Eligibility For Public Assistance Programs.

Impact

The implementation of HB 5403 will have significant implications for veterans seeking public assistance in areas such as medical aid, energy assistance, and general assistance. By excluding veterans' benefits from income calculations, the bill seeks to alleviate the financial burden on veterans, ensuring that their entitlements do not compromise their access to additional support from state programs. This could potentially improve the living conditions of veterans who find themselves in need of assistance, thereby enhancing their overall well-being.

Summary

House Bill 5403 aims to revise the criteria used by the Commissioner of Social Services in determining eligibility for public assistance programs, specifically by excluding certain veterans' benefits from being counted as income. The bill identifies Aid and Attendance pension benefits and disability benefits granted to veterans, stating that these benefits should not impact the assessment of a recipient's financial status under various assistance programs. This change is designed to allow veterans to access assistance without their benefits hindering eligibility.

Contention

Notably, the bill's passage may not be without contention. Critics may argue about the long-term financial implications for state-funded programs if a significant number of veterans begin to qualify for assistance as a result of their benefits being excluded from the income calculation. Advocates for fiscal responsibility could raise concerns about sustaining these programs in the face of such changes, while supporters of veterans' rights would likely challenge any attempts to restrict access to assistance for those who have served in the military. Thus, the deliberations surrounding this bill are expected to address both the immediate benefits for veterans and the broader consequences for state welfare programs.