The proposed General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5557 aims to update the definition of "intellectual disability" in Connecticut law to align with the fifth edition of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Specifically, the bill repeals the existing definition, which described intellectual disability as a significant limitation in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior originating before the age of eighteen, and replaces it with a new definition that maintains the same meaning as the aforementioned manual. Additionally, the bill ensures that individuals eligible for or receiving services under this definition will not lose access to services or experience a reduction in benefits due to any changes in eligibility criteria or agency guidelines.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the Commissioner of Developmental Services, in collaboration with the Council on Developmental Services, to review and potentially amend the eligibility criteria for state-administered services for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This review will involve soliciting input from stakeholders, including individuals with intellectual disabilities and their advocates, and studying best practices from other states. A report detailing recommendations for changes in eligibility criteria, the expected impact on service eligibility, associated state costs, and best practices will be submitted to the General Assembly by December 1, 2026. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 1-1g