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HB 5471

AN ACT INCREASING ACCESS TO THE HUSKY HEALTH PROGRAM TO IMMIGRANTS WITHOUT LEGAL STATUS UP TO AGE TWENTY-SIX AND OVER AGE SIXTY-FIVE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Marcus Brown and 7 co-sponsors

HB 5471 expands Connecticut HUSKY Health coverage to undocumented immigrants under 26 and over 65, removing immigration-status barriers for these age groups.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Human Services
#huskyplan #immigration
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Bill Summary · HB 5471

Legislative bill overview

HB 5471 expands Connecticut's HUSKY Health program (the state's Medicaid equivalent) to cover undocumented immigrants in two age groups: those under 26 and those over 65. Currently, HUSKY Health eligibility is largely restricted to U.S. citizens and documented immigrants, with limited exceptions. This bill removes immigration status as a barrier for these specific age brackets.

Why is this important

Approximately 200,000+ undocumented immigrants live in Connecticut, many without health insurance access. Expanding coverage for young adults and seniors addresses vulnerability in two demographics: young people during formative health years and elderly populations with higher medical needs. The fiscal and healthcare system impacts would be significant, affecting state budgets, hospital uncompensated care costs, and public health outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and state budget impact: Expanding Medicaid to any population increases state expenditures; federal matching rates for undocumented immigrants are lower or nonexistent, placing full costs on Connecticut
  • Immigration policy philosophy: Opponents may argue benefits should prioritize citizens/legal residents, while supporters contend public health is apolitical and benefits all residents
  • Implementation complexity: Determining age eligibility and immigration status verification without discouraging eligible applicants creates administrative and privacy concerns

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

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