December 30, 2019

New Laws Effective January 1, 2020

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A new year is upon us and with it brings a new list of laws and tax changes to be aware of as we begin 2020.

Tax Changes

Below is a brief summary of tax changes and new public acts. The taxes were part of the latest biennial state budget, which I voted against.

Dry Cleaning – Expands existing state sales tax rate to dry cleaning services & laundry services

Parking – Expands existing state sales tax rate to parking

Interior Design Service – Expands existing state sales tax rate to interior design services

Safety Apparel – Repeals tax exempt status on safety apparel (vests, gloves, etc.)

New Public Acts

Below are highlights of healthcare-related public acts aimed at helping those struggling with addiction, Alzheimer’s, impaired hearing, and more. I was proud to support this bipartisan legislation.

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Disorder (PA 19-159)

This new law creates a level of parity and protection for patients seeking mental health and substance abuse disorder treatments.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Training and Best Practices (PA 19-115)

This new law requires certain health care professionals who provide primary care or emergency treatment for adults to receive training in recognizing the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, and to establish a working group to develop recommendations on improving the care of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia patients.

Expanding Required Health Insurance Coverage for Hearing Aids (PA 19-133)

This new law removes a previous age restriction (12 years and under) for mandatory health insurance coverage for hearing aids. Individuals of all ages are now eligible.

Although I was not yet in office when this bill passed in 2018, I fully support PA 18-41, An Act Concerning Prescription Drug Costs. This law requires greater reporting requirements on pharmacy benefits managers, health carriers, pharmaceutical manufacturers, the Office of Health Strategy, and the Insurance Department concerning prescription drug rebates and the cost of prescription drugs.

Please contact me if you have questions, comments or concerns regarding legislation or any state government matter. I am always happy to hear from you!

Office: (860) 240-8700 or toll free: (800) 842-1423

Home: (860) 376-9354

Email: Brian.Lanoue@cga.ct.gov

I would like to wish each of you and your loved ones a happy, healthy and successful new year!