Buckbee’s Provision Allowing Parents to be Compensated as Caregivers Clears House

NEW MILFORD – State Rep. Billy Buckbee (R-New Milford) proposed a concept earlier in the year that would allow parents or guardians of individuals diagnosed with an intellectual or developmental disability to be compensated as a caregiver. Current state law prohibits family members from being compensated as caregivers, creating an insurmountable financial burden for many Connecticut families.

“Earlier in the year the Human Services Committee heard from a resident of New Milford who is faced with this particular scenario on a daily basis. During her testimony, committee members learned that many parents are not able to maintain a normal 9-5 job, while caring for children diagnosed with various intellectual or developmental disabilities. Based on the unique needs of each family, it only seems logical that the state allows parents to be compensated for providing such a high level of care,” said Buckbee, who serves as a member of the Human Services Committee.

12 states already allow family members to be compensated as caregivers, with Connecticut being only one of seven to prohibit it. Buckbee’s individual proposal was rolled into a larger piece of legislation, H.B. 5001 – An Act Concerning Resources and Support Services for Persons with an Intellectual or Developmental Disability. The bill was debated and acted upon during Tuesday’s House session.

After voting in support of the legislation, Buckbee said, “This concept aligns with the overall purpose of the larger bill, which is to expand and increase access to services. I can’t think of a better way to expand services than to allow a child’s parent to step up and be there for them.”

The House approved the bill with a unanimous vote. It now heads to the Senate for further action. For it to become law, the Senate must act before the end of the current legislative session.

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