SB 482, An Act Concerning Legislative Oversight Of Medicaid Waivers, Medicaid State Plan Amendments And Other Federally Funded Programs

TESTIMONY OF THE CONNECTICUT HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION
SUBMITTED TO THE HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE

Tuesday, March 17, 2026

The Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) appreciates this opportunity to submit testimony concerning SB 482, An Act Concerning Legislative Oversight Of Medicaid Waivers, Medicaid State Plan Amendments And Other Federally Funded Programs.  CHA supports the bill.

Connecticut hospitals make our state stronger by delivering nationally recognized, world-class care, supporting jobs and economic growth, and serving communities across Connecticut.  Every day, hospitals improve access, affordability, and health equity — providing care to all patients regardless of ability to pay.  At the same time, hospitals invest in their workforce and local communities, even as they navigate significant financial and federal challenges.

CHA appreciates the existing statutory framework in section 17b-8 that provides the legislature with oversight of Medicaid waivers and certain state plan amendments, and we support SB 482’s proposed extension of these oversight provisions.  In particular, SB 482 expands the current review process to require advance legislative notification and potential review of applications for federal funding for programs administered by the Department of Social Services. It also would strengthen public transparency through advance notice and comment procedures prior to submission of waiver applications or proposed state plan amendments.  These additions build upon the legislature’s existing oversight role and help ensure that significant Medicaid and other federal programs and financing decisions that may affect patients, providers, and the state’s healthcare delivery system are transparent and receive appropriate legislative review before they are advanced to the federal government.

Thank you for your consideration of our position.  For additional information, contact CHA Government Relations at (203) 294-7301.