Human Services

This bill codifies the federal Americans with Disabilities Act into Connecticut state law by incorporating the act and its regulations into the state's general statutes, ensuring they apply with the same force as if fully written into state law. It allows individuals who believe they have been discriminated against under the ADA to file complaints with the state Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities instead of pursuing federal complaints, provided state law does not offer more stringent protections. The legislation takes effect on October 1, 2026, and applies to employment, state and local government services, and public accommodations covered by the federal act.

This bill establishes new consumer protections for long-term care insurance policies in Connecticut, affecting insurance companies, policyholders, and state agencies. It requires the Office of Policy and Management to create an outreach program educating consumers about long-term care options, financing, and asset protection rules. The bill mandates that insurance policies must offer home and community-based services, include inflation protection, and cannot tie executive compensation to rate increases. Additionally, insurers must maintain a minimum 60% loss ratio, and any premium increases of 20% or more must be spread over at least three years.

This bill updates the definition of intellectual disability used by the Department of Developmental Services to align with the fifth edition of the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic manual, which will affect eligibility for state-administered services starting July 1, 2026. It includes a protection clause ensuring that people currently receiving services will not lose benefits or face reduced services due to changes in eligibility criteria resulting from this definition update. The bill also requires the Commissioner of Developmental Services to review and potentially adjust eligibility criteria by December 1, 2026, after consulting with stakeholders and studying best practices from other states. A report detailing recommendations, expected impacts on eligible populations, and associated costs must be submitted to the General Assembly committees overseeing human services and appropriations.

SB 87 creates a Nonprofit Provider Advisory Board within the Office of Policy and Management to advise state leaders on improving nonprofit services and efficiency. The board, appointed by the governor and including agency commissioners, will focus on enhancing nonprofit financial viability, streamlining state processes, and developing standardized data collection for nonprofit impact. The bill also includes two key protections: insurers cannot deny auto insurance renewals or increase rates for volunteer drivers serving nonprofits, and health insurers cannot retroactively deny claims for covered services after 12 months. These provisions directly affect nonprofit organizations, their volunteer drivers, and healthcare providers by creating advisory structures and safeguarding against insurance penalties.

This bill establishes new Medicaid payment rates and service limits for adult dental care and cognitive assessments in Connecticut. Starting July 1, 2026, it requires prior authorization for nonemergency dental services while exempting basic preventive care and medically necessary procedures from a $1,000 annual spending cap. The legislation also directs the state to update Medicaid reimbursement rates to match Medicare standards for cognitive assessments and care planning for patients under 65 showing signs of cognitive impairment. Additionally, it creates a structured advisory council with representatives from various healthcare sectors to oversee Medicaid service modifications and ensure balanced oversight of dental benefit limitations.