CT HB05001

Replaces Section 12-170d of the general statutes to provide rental cost relief grants to eligible seniors and persons with disabilities, effective July 1, 2014.

Qualifies renters who are age 65 or over, or under 65 with permanent total disability status under Social Security or comparable federal/state/local government retirement plans, and their spouses.

Requires applicants to reside in Connecticut for at least one year and have qualifying income not exceeding $20,000 jointly (married) or $16,200 (unmarried).

Grants refund utility and rent bills paid, but applicants cannot have received certain federal, state, county, or municipal financial assistance for housing costs, with exceptions for Social Security, emergency energy assistance, SSI, veterans benefits, and subsidized housing.

Eliminates prior restrictions on eligibility based on receipt of grants in calendar year 2011, opening the program to new applicants.