Veterans (Veteran Benefits)

HB 5413 establishes a state program to help eligible veterans access dental care by covering specific services (like cleanings, fillings, and dentures) up to $3,500 annually. It targets state-resident veterans with service-connected disabilities under 100% and household incomes at or below 400% of the federal poverty level, who aren’t receiving VA dental care. The program requires veterans to apply through the Department of Veterans Affairs, which refers them to participating dentists, reviews treatment plans, and pays providers directly after veterans’ insurance is exhausted. The program begins October 1, 2026, and includes annual performance reports to the legislature.

SB 376 requires the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs to post specific warnings and tools on its website starting July 1, 2026, to protect veterans. It mandates a plain-language warning about unauthorized individuals offering help with VA claims (without U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recognition), a link to report such providers, a search tool for approved agents, access to disciplinary records for violators, and a warning against sharing login credentials. This directly affects veterans seeking assistance with VA benefits by providing clear safety information and resources. The bill focuses on enhancing transparency and security through mandatory website updates, not on altering benefit eligibility or funding.

SB 378 provides a property tax exemption for veterans permanently and totally disabled due to service-connected injuries, as certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs with a 100% disability rating. Eligible veterans can exempt their primary residence (including up to two acres of land) or one vehicle from property taxes, and the exemption extends to spouses living with them or surviving spouses/minor children of deceased veterans. To qualify, veterans must submit proof of their VA disability rating to their town assessor, and the exemption applies to assessment years starting October 1, 2026. This change replaces existing provisions to clarify eligibility and streamline the application process.

SB 214 increases the property tax exemption for veterans and certain military-related individuals from $15,000 to $20,000 on properties valued under $750,000. This directly affects qualifying veterans who own homes or other properties meeting the value threshold. The bill modifies existing law to provide a $20,000 reduction off the assessed value of eligible properties. It does not change eligibility criteria but sets a $750,000 cap on property value to qualify for the exemption. The change applies to all qualifying properties owned by veterans or military-related individuals in the state.