The bill, titled "An Act Concerning Palliative and Hospice Care in Litchfield County," mandates the Commissioner of Social Services, in collaboration with the Commissioner of Public Health, to conduct a study assessing the need for palliative and hospice care services in Litchfield County. The study will consider findings from the Palliative Care Advisory Council and is required to be completed by January 1, 2027. Following the study, if a need for such services is identified, the Commissioner may design and implement a pilot program to provide these services, utilizing available appropriations and maximizing federal funding opportunities, including seeking a Medicaid waiver or amending the Medicaid state plan.

The bill introduces new legal language, specifically the requirement for the study and the potential for a pilot program, while there are no deletions from current law. The act is set to take effect upon passage and does not impose any fiscal impact on the state or municipalities, as the Department of Social Services already has the necessary resources and expertise to carry out the study and report its findings.