CT HB05559

Establishes a Basic Health Program under Section 1331 of the Affordable Care Act for Connecticut residents under 65 with household incomes between 133% and 200% of the federal poverty level, effective July 1, 2026

Federal funding would cover 95% of the premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions that eligible individuals would otherwise receive through Access Health Connecticut marketplace plans

Creates a separate nonlapsing "basic health program account" managed by the Department of Social Services, with excess federal funds required to reduce premiums, lower cost-sharing, or expand benefits for enrollees

Establishes a working group to oversee program design, including state officials, legislators, the Healthcare Advocate, Access Health CT's CEO, and health insurance experts, with recommendations due by December 1, 2026

Requires the Commissioner of Social Services to submit progress reports every six months starting January 1, 2027 through 2030 (annually thereafter), and hold public hearings and stakeholder engagement meetings before implementation