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SB 501

AN ACT CONCERNING THE COMPLEX REHABILITATION TECHNOLOGY AND WHEELCHAIR REPAIR ADVISORY COUNCIL.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kate Farrar and 4 co-sponsors

Connecticut establishes an advisory council to guide policy on wheelchair repair and rehabilitation technology access for people with disabilities.

FILE NO. 490
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Bill Summary · SB 501

Legislative bill overview

SB 501 establishes a Complex Rehabilitation Technology and Wheelchair Repair Advisory Council in Connecticut. The council would provide guidance on policy matters related to rehabilitation equipment and wheelchair repair services. The bill is currently in the early legislative stages, having been referred to the Joint Committee on Human Services with a public hearing scheduled.

Why is this important

Access to properly maintained wheelchairs and rehabilitation technology directly affects the independence and quality of life for people with disabilities. An advisory council can help identify gaps in repair services, insurance coverage barriers, and equipment availability issues that currently impact vulnerable populations. Connecticut's approach could serve as a model for other states addressing these practical accessibility challenges.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding and staffing costs - Establishing and operating an advisory council requires state resources; legislators may debate whether this is a cost-effective use of public funds versus direct service funding
  • Council composition and representation - Disputes may arise over who sits on the council and whether it adequately represents wheelchair users, repair technicians, healthcare providers, and insurers
  • Advisory versus regulatory power - Unclear whether the council will have authority to implement recommendations or merely advise, potentially limiting its effectiveness if it lacks enforcement mechanisms

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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