Bill > HB07188

This bill establishes the Connecticut Housing Engagement and Support Services (CHESS) initiative, a Medicaid-based program designed to improve housing stability and health outcomes for individuals with complex health conditions who have experienced homelessness. The bill requires the Commissioner of Social Services to amend the Medicaid state plan to set minimum monthly rates for CHESS providers, ensure eligibility criteria and payment rates align with existing supportive housing programs, set provider payment rates comparable to other states, and prioritize housing assistance vouchers for newly enrolled unhoused participants. Additionally, the bill creates an oversight committee composed of legislative committee chairpersons, state agency commissioners, and two nonprofit representatives focused on homeless services. This committee will review services for homeless persons, with state commissioners required to file quarterly reports and seek committee approval for any service changes. The goal is to provide comprehensive, coordinated support to help vulnerable individuals secure and maintain stable housing while addressing their complex health and social needs.

Health and Social Services

Human Services Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB07188&which_year=2025