The Connecticut House of Representatives Appropriations Committee held a public hearing on March 1, 2025, focusing on critical funding needs for health services in the state. Key discussions centered on the urgent need for increased financial support for community health organizations and Medicaid reimbursement rates.

Several speakers emphasized the importance of timely funding to address the growing health care demands in Connecticut. One representative highlighted that delaying action on these issues would lead to higher costs for the state in the long run. They requested full annualization of fiscal year 2025 ARPA funding and an 8% increase in fiscal year 2027 to ensure the expansion of essential services, particularly in children's behavioral health. Quick intervention in these services is crucial, as delays can have severe consequences for children and the broader community.

Katie Curran, president and CEO of the Connecticut Institute for Communities (CIVIC), provided testimony on the challenges faced by community health centers. She noted that CIVIC serves a significant number of Medicaid patients, which has become increasingly difficult due to low reimbursement rates. According to Curran, Connecticut's Medicaid rates for community health centers are 20 to 25% lower than those in neighboring states, resulting in substantial financial losses for these organizations. She urged the committee to adjust Medicaid rates to reflect actual service costs and to implement reimbursement for community health workers, who play a vital role in supporting patients.

Additionally, Clara Mata, a student from Danbury, advocated for funding to extend HUSKY eligibility to all income-eligible residents, regardless of immigration status, up to age 26. She emphasized the importance of access to medical care for immigrants and the financial burdens that prevent families from seeking necessary treatment.

The hearing underscored the pressing need for legislative action to ensure that health services in Connecticut can meet the demands of its residents, particularly vulnerable populations. The committee's decisions in the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the future of health care access and support in the state.