Bill > HB05559

This bill establishes a Basic Health Program, a new health care initiative authorized by the Affordable Care Act (ACA), designed to expand affordable health insurance options for state residents. The program will be available to individuals under 65 who earn between 133% and 200% of the federal poverty level, are not eligible for other state medical assistance programs, and could otherwise enroll in a qualified health plan through Access Health Connecticut. The program will be funded by federal payments equivalent to 95% of the health insurance premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions that eligible individuals would have received under the ACA. The Commissioner of Social Services will oversee the program's implementation, coordinating it with existing state medical assistance programs and seeking federal approval. A working group, comprised of various state officials, legislative leaders, health experts, and stakeholders, will be established to guide the program's design and implementation. The bill also creates a dedicated "basic health program account" for program funds and mandates public hearings and stakeholder engagement meetings before the program's launch. Reporting requirements are included to keep legislative committees informed about the program's operations and finances.

Health and Social Services

Human Services Committee (Joint)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB05559&which_year=2026