Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00913

Introduced
2/18/21  
Refer
2/18/21  
Refer
2/18/21  
Report Pass
3/9/21  
Refer
3/18/21  
Report Pass
3/24/21  
Refer
4/28/21  

Caption

An Act Requiring Fairness For Families In Medicaid Eligibility And Reimbursement Determinations.

Impact

The legislation is expected to significantly impact state laws related to Medicaid eligibility and reimbursement for home care services. It offers a more inclusive and equitable framework for family caregivers, thus improving access to necessary support for families caring for members with medical needs. Additionally, by adjusting asset transfer regulations, the bill attempts to prevent penalties that could restrict a family's ability to provide for their caregivers, ensuring smoother transitions for those in need of these services.

Summary

Senate Bill 00913 aims to enhance fairness in Medicaid eligibility and reimbursement determinations for family caregivers in Connecticut. The bill requires that payment rates for family caregivers be equal to those set for non-family professional caregivers, which is intended to recognize the essential services provided by family members. This adjustment moves to level the playing field for caregivers within the Medicaid framework, promoting equitable compensation practices that acknowledge the care family's offer to elderly and disabled relatives.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB00913 is predominantly positive, particularly among advocates of family caregiving and social equity. Supporters argue that the bill addresses long-standing disparities faced by family caregivers who historically have been under-compensated. However, there is cautious optimism, as some stakeholders express concerns about the operational implications and enforceability of the new regulations. Overall, the feeling is one of hope for achieving greater fairness and support for families involved in caregiving.

Contention

While many legislators agree on the need for reform, there are points of contention relating to how the bill will be implemented practically. Some concerns were raised regarding the adequacy of funding and whether the adjustments to reimbursement rates will be sustainable in the long term. The debate highlights a crucial tension between improving caregiver support and managing the fiscal responsibilities of the state, suggesting a need for continued discussion on the best methods to balance these competing priorities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT SB00310

An Act Concerning Compensation For Family Caregivers, Retroactive Eligibility For Medicaid And Treatment Of Assets Discovered After An Application For Medical Assistance.

CT SB00344

An Act Concerning Certain Federal Veterans' Benefits And Income Eligibility Determinations For Certain Public Assistance Programs.

CT HB05402

An Act Excluding From Veterans' Income Calculations Certain Benefits Payments For Purposes Of Eligibility For Certain State And Municipal Programs.

CT SB00156

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Study Requiring Nursing Homes To Spend A Percentage Of Medicaid Reimbursement Or Total Revenue On Direct Care Of Nursing Home Residents.

CT HB05053

An Act Concerning The Governor's Budget Recommendations For Health And Human Services.

CT HB05459

An Act Increasing Rates Of Medicaid Reimbursement For Certain Providers.

CT HB05296

An Act Expanding The Connecticut Home-care Program For The Elderly.

CT HB05001

An Act Supporting Connecticut Seniors And The Improvement Of Nursing And Home-based Care.

CT SB00311

An Act Concerning The Connecticut Home-care Program For The Elderly.

CT SB00313

An Act Concerning Continuous Medicaid Eligibility For Children Under The Age Of Six.

Similar Bills

NJ S3495

Provides for presumptive eligibility for home and community-based services and services provided through program of all-inclusive care for the elderly under Medicaid.

NJ A4049

Provides for presumptive eligibility for home and community-based services and services provided through program of all-inclusive care for the elderly under Medicaid.

NJ S1961

Provides for presumptive eligibility for home and community-based services and services provided through program of all-inclusive care for the elderly under Medicaid.

NJ S1198

Requires establishment of processes to identify Medicaid eligible incarcerated individuals who are awaiting pre-trial release determinations, are being released following period of incarceration, or are undergoing inpatient hospital treatment.

NJ S761

Requires Medicaid fee-for-service coverage of managed long term services and supports when beneficiary is pending enrollment in managed care organization.

NJ A4012

Requires Medicaid fee-for-service coverage of managed long term services and supports when beneficiary is pending enrollment in managed care organization.

NJ S413

Requires Medicaid fee-for-service coverage of managed long term services and supports when beneficiary is pending enrollment in managed care organization.

NJ A1409

Requires Medicaid fee-for-service coverage of managed long term services and supports when beneficiary is pending enrollment in managed care organization.