Senate Bill No. 981 aims to expand Medicaid eligibility for older persons and individuals with disabilities in Connecticut by modifying the income criteria for eligibility. The bill specifically excludes federal Social Security income related to an individual's status as a "disabled adult child" from being counted towards the HUSKY C Medicaid income limit. This change is intended to facilitate access to Medicaid for those who may have previously been ineligible due to their income exceeding the limit. The bill also establishes that medical assistance will be available for individuals whose income does not exceed one hundred fifty-nine percent of the benefit amount paid to a person with no income under the temporary family assistance program.

The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes provisions for the Commissioner of Social Services to provide applicants with information regarding the impact of property dispositions and income limits on their eligibility. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Department of Social Services will incur costs related to system modifications and increased eligibility, with an estimated revenue gain of approximately $125,000. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve access to Medicaid for vulnerable populations by adjusting the criteria for eligibility and providing necessary information to applicants.