Substitute House Bill No. 7108, now Public Act No. 25-89, establishes new reporting and review requirements for the Commissioner of Developmental Services regarding abuse and neglect investigations and the expenditure of funds for services. The Commissioner is mandated to file an annual report by January 15, 2026, detailing the number of abuse and neglect complaints, investigations conducted, substantiated cases, and any administrative actions taken. Additionally, a review of the department's policies and procedures related to these investigations must occur every five years, with updates posted online. Starting September 30, 2025, the Commissioner will also provide quarterly reports on the progress of fund expenditures, services provided, anticipated lapsed funds, and waiting lists for services.

The bill further establishes working groups to study the use of Southbury Training School and the feasibility of an interagency complex case team for young adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. These groups will gather input from various stakeholders and submit their findings and recommendations by February 1, 2026. The Commissioner of Social Services is tasked with applying for federal or private funding for a state-wide autism needs assessment, which will inform policy and service delivery. Lastly, the General Assembly's committees will have the authority to hold annual hearings to review the safety and quality of care for individuals with disabilities receiving Medicaid-funded services, ensuring accountability and addressing any audit findings related to abuse and neglect.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 4-67bb
HS Joint Favorable Substitute: 4-67bb
File No. 470: 4-67bb
APP Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 915: