OLR Bill Analysis

sSB 143

AN ACT INCREASING ELIGIBILITY FOR THE ALZHEIMER RESPITE CARE PROGRAM.

SUMMARY:

This bill increases, from $ 41,000 to $ 50,000, the Statewide Respite Care Program's annual income limit and retains the existing asset limit of $ 109,000. The program provides respite for caregivers for people with Alzheimer's disease or related disorders, regardless of age, who are not enrolled in the Connecticut Homecare Program for Elders. By law, the Department of Social Services commissioner must annually increase the income and asset limits to reflect Social Security cost of living adjustments.

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2012

BACKGROUND

State-Wide Respite Care Program

By law, program participants are eligible to receive up to $ 7,500 in services annually, depending on need. Services include homemaker and personal care assistant services, adult day care, short-term medical facility care, home health care, and companion services.

COMMITTEE ACTION

Aging Committee

Joint Favorable Substitute Change of Reference

Appropriations Committee

Joint Favorable Substitute