The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1300, aims to amend the Connecticut home-care program for the elderly by allowing compensation for spouses who provide personal care assistance to individuals enrolled in the state-funded portion of the program. Specifically, the bill repeals subsection (i) of section 17b-342 and replaces it with new provisions that maintain eligibility criteria for the program while introducing a new provision that permits compensation for personal care assistance. This includes stipulations that the Commissioner of Social Services will establish training and documentation requirements for spouses and other caregivers to receive such compensation.

Additionally, the bill outlines the financial contributions required from individuals based on their income levels, with specific exemptions for those residing in affordable housing under the assisted living demonstration project. It also sets limits on the annualized cost of services provided under the program, ensuring that it does not exceed a certain percentage of the average nursing home care costs in the state. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to enhance support for caregivers, particularly spouses, who play a critical role in the care of elderly individuals.