Bill > SB00401

This bill establishes a state-funded "bridge program" to help vulnerable individuals, defined as veterans, homeless individuals, those at risk of homelessness, adults with autism spectrum disorder, young adults aging out of foster care, and individuals aged 55-64 at risk of losing benefits, maintain access to essential services like food, healthcare, and housing. The program aims to provide state-funded medical, nutrition, housing, and employment assistance to these individuals who may lose federal aid due to changes in federal work requirements, specifically referencing Public Law 119-21 and proposed changes by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The Commissioner of Social Services, in collaboration with other state commissioners, must develop a plan by October 1, 2026, which will supplement existing job support programs, provide transitional state-funded assistance equivalent to what would have been received under federal programs, recommend long-term housing solutions including an inventory of state property for housing, and require uniform documentation of employability to potentially secure federal waivers for work requirements. The plan, along with funding needs and an implementation timeline, must be submitted to the General Assembly by January 1, 2027.

Budget and Finance

Appropriations Committee (Joint)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB00401&which_year=2026