Bill > SB01474

This bill proposes three key changes to Connecticut's social services and healthcare regulations. First, it expands Medicaid coverage for individuals with obesity, specifically allowing coverage for weight loss drugs like GLP-1 medications (such as Ozempic or Wegovy) for beneficiaries with a body mass index (BMI) over 35, and providing continued coverage if a physician certifies that stopping the medication would cause the patient's BMI to increase. Second, the bill requires the Commissioner of Social Services to submit any Medicaid state plan amendments not already subject to legislative approval to the joint standing committee on human services, which must vote on the amendment within 30 days and approve it before federal submission. Third, the bill mandates that prescribing practitioners who receive Medicaid reimbursement for opioid drugs must complete training in nonopioid pain management, including understanding alternative treatment options and evaluating the risks and benefits of those alternatives. These provisions aim to improve healthcare coverage, increase legislative oversight of Medicaid changes, and promote more responsible opioid prescribing practices.

Health and Social Services

Human Services Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB01474&which_year=2025