An Act Concerning Adult Day Center Transportation.
Summary
HB 5305 would amend the state statute governing rates paid under the Connecticut home-care program for the elderly to require a specific increase for adult day care services beginning July 1, 2026. The bill directs the Commissioner of Social Services to raise the adult day care fee schedule by 10% over the prior fiscal year, with the stated purpose of providing increased funding for adult day care transportation. Starting July 1, 2027, the commissioner would then be required to increase the adult day care fee schedule annually by at least the consumer price index cost-of-living adjustment.
The bill does not create a separate transportation program or new eligibility category; instead, it changes the reimbursement framework for adult day care services so providers have additional funding that can be used for transportation-related costs. The underlying statute already covers a range of home- and community-based services, including homemaker services, respite care, meals on wheels, case management, and transportation, and this bill specifically targets adult day care within that broader rate-setting structure.
Impact
The bill would amend Section 17b-343 of the general statutes, affecting the Department of Social Services’ annual fee schedule for adult day care services under the Connecticut home-care program for the elderly. It would require a one-time 10% increase effective July 1, 2026, followed by annual CPI-based minimum increases beginning July 1, 2027. The practical effect would be higher state reimbursement rates for adult day care providers, which could support transportation expenses and potentially improve access for older adults who rely on adult day centers.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests broad support for the bill. It received a unanimous Joint Favorable vote in the Aging Committee (14-0) and strong approval in the Appropriations Committee (38-6). No committee transcripts were provided, but the vote pattern indicates the measure was generally viewed favorably as a targeted funding adjustment for aging services and transportation support.
Contention
There is little evidence of major controversy in the available record, but the main policy issue is fiscal: the bill requires higher reimbursement rates, which could increase state spending. Any opposition likely centers on budget impact, the size of the mandated increase, and whether a rate adjustment is the best way to address transportation needs for adult day care participants. Support appears to come from lawmakers and advocates for older adults and community-based care providers who see transportation as a barrier to access.
Article V Convention; process for appointing commissioners and alternate commissioners to represent the State of Alabama at Article V Convention established