Bill > HB07103

This bill aims to expand and improve the Katie Beckett Medicaid waiver program, which provides home and community-based services for children with complex medical needs. The key changes include raising the age limit from 21 to 18 years old for program eligibility and requiring the Department of Social Services to enhance program transparency and accessibility. Specifically, by January 2026, the department must create an online resource with detailed program information, including eligibility criteria, available services, support groups, and other related programs. The bill mandates that the department send annual surveys to waiting list applicants to confirm their continued interest and maintain accurate records. Additionally, the Commissioner of Social Services must develop a five-year plan to eliminate the program's waiting list and add home modification coverage for participants with disabilities, and submit a report to the legislature by October 2026 with recommendations for implementing this plan. The Katie Beckett Waiver Program is named after a child who helped pioneer Medicaid waivers that allow children with severe disabilities to receive care at home instead of in institutions, and this bill seeks to improve access to such critical services.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

Human Services Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB07103&which_year=2025