The proposed bill, Substitute Bill No. 7010, aims to enhance support for paraeducators by establishing a subsidy program for health benefits and retirement contributions. Effective July 1, 2025, the bill repeals and replaces Section 203 of public act 23-204, extending the subsidy program for paraeducators from the fiscal years ending June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2027. The program will provide financial assistance to paraeducators who open health savings accounts or enroll in high deductible health plans, with the subsidy amount determined by the Comptroller. Additionally, local or regional boards of education that provide health coverage to paraeducators will receive a subsidy to help offset the employee's share of premium costs.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that local and regional boards of education cover the full employee contribution for retirement benefits for paraeducators, with the Comptroller responsible for reimbursing at least fifty percent of these costs annually. The bill includes provisions for a memorandum of understanding between the Comptroller and the Commissioner of Education to facilitate the implementation of these subsidies, utilizing a specified amount of funding appropriated for paraeducator assistance. Overall, the bill seeks to improve the financial support and benefits available to paraeducators in Connecticut.