CT HB06635

Increases the benefit time limit for temporary family assistance from 21 months to 60 months, effective July 1, 2021.

Excludes months of assistance received during the COVID-19 public health emergency declared by Governor Ned Lamont from counting toward the 60-month lifetime limit.

Allows families to petition for six-month extensions of benefits if they make good faith efforts to comply with program requirements and meet specific criteria including domestic violence, employment barriers, or working 35+ hours per week at minimum wage.

Adds a new exemption category for families that have encountered circumstances preventing employment, including domestic violence.

Requires the Commissioner of Social Services to provide annual cost-of-living adjustments to temporary family assistance benefits equal to the consumer price index increase when lapsed appropriated funds are sufficient.