Connecticut's Senate Bill 1501, introduced on March 11, 2025, aims to address critical issues within the Probate Court system, particularly concerning conservatorship and tort claims against estates. The bill seeks to establish a working group to study the challenges faced by conservators, including payment delays and Medicaid eligibility determinations, with a report due by January 15, 2026.

One of the bill's standout provisions allows tort claims against estates to proceed in Superior Court, even if they lack subject matter jurisdiction, provided they fall within existing insurance coverage. This change is significant as it ensures that claimants can seek compensation without being hindered by jurisdictional issues, although recovery is limited to the insurance policy limits.

The bill has sparked discussions among stakeholders, including Probate Court judges and social services representatives, who are concerned about the implications of payment delays and the overall efficiency of the conservatorship process. Critics argue that while the bill addresses some procedural hurdles, it may not fully resolve the systemic issues within the Probate Court.

As Connecticut prepares for the bill's implementation, which will take effect in stages throughout 2025, experts anticipate that the findings from the working group could lead to further legislative recommendations, potentially reshaping how conservatorship and estate claims are handled in the state. The outcome of this bill could have lasting effects on vulnerable populations relying on conservatorship services and the legal framework surrounding estate management.