House Bill No. 8004 seeks to improve children's behavioral health services in Connecticut by establishing the Transforming Children's Behavioral Health Policy and Planning Committee. This committee is responsible for conducting a comprehensive study on current behavioral health services for children, analyzing utilization rates, outreach strategies, and financial resource allocation, with a report due by January 1, 2027. The bill also modifies the age limit for recipients of behavioral therapy from "children less than twenty-one" to "individuals under twenty-six," and directs the Commissioner of Social Services to use federal grant funds to develop reimbursement models and care coordination services. Additionally, the bill mandates collaboration with school-based health centers to better understand their needs and includes provisions for reviewing private health insurance coverage for treatment at urgent crisis centers.

Moreover, the bill introduces amendments to existing laws regarding state agency representation, family assistance program eligibility, and telecommunications provider fees. It adds two representatives from federally recognized Indian tribes to the appropriations committee and modifies family assistance eligibility by allowing a standard deduction for self-employment income. The bill also changes the timeline for telecommunications fees and establishes regulations for law enforcement conduct on courthouse grounds. It restricts the disclosure of personal information by public agencies and mandates the use of a state-wide centralized voter registration system by town clerks starting July 1, 2024. Additionally, it clarifies voter registration laws and outlines procedures for correcting errors in redistricting plans, aiming to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of the voter registration process.

Statutes affected:
New Bill: 9-50b
Public Act No. 25-3: 9-50b