Substitute House Bill No. 7103, also known as Public Act No. 25-42, amends Section 17b-283 of the general statutes to establish a Medicaid waiver program, referred to as the "Katie Beckett Waiver Program," aimed at providing home and community-based services for individuals who are institutionalized or at risk of institutionalization. The bill changes the age eligibility from "twenty-one" to "eighteen" years or younger for individuals with physical disabilities, who may also have co-occurring developmental disabilities, and who meet the financial eligibility criteria set forth in the waiver.

Additionally, the bill mandates the Commissioner of Social Services to create an online resource by January 1, 2026, detailing eligibility criteria, available services, and contact information for support groups related to the Katie Beckett Waiver Program. It also requires the Commissioner to conduct an annual survey of applicants on the waiting list to confirm their status and develop a five-year plan to eliminate this waiting list while adding home modification coverage for participants. A report on this plan, including recommendations for necessary state appropriations, is to be submitted to the relevant legislative committees by October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
HS Joint Favorable:
File No. 467:
APP Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 913:
File No. 941:
Public Act No. 25-42: