The proposed bill, General Assembly Committee Bill No. 981, aims to expand Medicaid eligibility for older persons and individuals with disabilities. It modifies the existing law by repealing subsection (a) of section 17b-261 and replacing it with new provisions effective July 1, 2025. The bill stipulates that medical assistance will be available to eligible individuals whose income does not exceed 159% of the benefit amount for a person with no income under the temporary family assistance program. Additionally, it clarifies that any property disposition made on behalf of an applicant or recipient by authorized individuals will be attributed to the applicant or recipient, and it establishes that the commissioner will set eligibility standards based on this income threshold.

Furthermore, the bill introduces specific exclusions from income calculations, such as Aid and Attendance pension benefits for veterans and Title II income related to an individual's status as a disabled adult child under the Social Security Act. It also mandates that the Commissioner of Social Services provide applicants with written information regarding the impact of property dispositions and income limits on eligibility. The bill ensures that individuals under 19 years of age can qualify for medical assistance with household incomes up to 196% of the federal poverty level without asset limits, while also providing guidance for those who may be ineligible for assistance.