CT HB05370

Commissioner of Social Services must establish a five-year medical respite pilot program for homeless persons by October 1, 2026, selecting four cities based on community need, existing infrastructure, and interest in participation

Program must serve at least 150 people requiring recuperative medical care but not hospitalization, with 2-4 units providing care for an average four-week stay, 24-hour supervision, healthcare referrals, and case management services

Planning group must include representatives from local hospitals and nonprofit homelessness organizations in each selected city, and must pursue public and private funding sources

Initial report due October 1, 2027 covering persons served, projected Medicaid cost savings from reduced hospitalizations, expansion recommendations, and potential funding sources

Final report due October 1, 2031 with overall program data, fiscal analysis of Medicaid savings, and recommendations on whether to make the program permanent