CT SB01230

Redefines "indigent defendant" under Connecticut General Statutes section 51-297(f) to include three categories: persons formally charged with crimes punishable by imprisonment, children with right to counsel under section 46b-135, and persons with right to counsel under section 46b-136, all lacking financial ability to secure legal representation.

Requires the commission to establish and annually update financial guidelines for determining indigent defendant status based on income at 250% or less of the federal poverty level.

Mandates the Division of Public Defender Services publish eligibility guidelines publicly on its website.

Takes effect October 1, 2023.