The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1360, aims to require legislative confirmation for the appointment of the Medicaid director within the Department of Social Services. The bill amends subsection (a) of section 17b-3 of the general statutes, which outlines the powers and duties of the Commissioner of Social Services. Notably, it adds the requirement that the commissioner administers the department's operations in accordance with state and federal law. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that mandates the Commissioner of Social Services to nominate a Medicaid director, who will be appointed by the Governor but must receive legislative confirmation as per section 4-7 of the general statutes.
The bill also stipulates that any individual serving as the Medicaid director prior to the enactment of this legislation will continue in an interim capacity until their appointment is confirmed or denied by the legislature. This change is intended to enhance oversight and accountability in the appointment process for the Medicaid director, ensuring that such appointments are subject to legislative scrutiny. The effective date for these changes is upon passage of the bill.