General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1151 seeks to amend the Connecticut General Statutes to improve the treatment of certain federal veterans' benefits in income eligibility determinations for public assistance programs. The bill mandates that the Commissioner of Social Services disregard all United States Department of Veterans Affairs-administered non-service-connected pension benefits, Aid and Attendance pension benefits, and Housebound pension benefits when assessing eligibility for state programs such as Medicare savings, medical assistance, and energy assistance. This change aims to prevent veterans and their surviving spouses from being penalized in their eligibility for these essential services due to their receipt of specific benefits. Additionally, the bill proposes to eliminate the asset test for the Medicare Savings Program and increase income disregards for various Medicare beneficiary programs. Furthermore, the bill introduces amendments regarding the evaluation of property disposition for eligibility, requiring that any assignment or transfer of property be assessed according to federal standards. It also mandates that the Commissioner provide applicants with written information about the impact of property disposition on eligibility and the consequences of exceeding income limits. The bill establishes new income eligibility guidelines for the state-appropriated fuel assistance program, allowing assistance for elderly and disabled individuals whose income does not exceed 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. These changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, and will apply to applications filed on or after that date, ultimately enhancing financial support for veterans and their families.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
VA Joint Favorable:
File No. 280:
APP Joint Favorable: