Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 17b-222 and 17b-223, the maximum rate to be charged for the care of patients with chronic illness other than tuberculosis in the state chronic disease hospitals shall be determined by the Commissioner of Administrative Services, in consultation with the Commissioner of Public Health. The same persons and estates as are legally liable for support of patients in state humane institutions shall be liable for support of patients with chronic illness other than tuberculosis in said chronic disease hospitals in accordance with ability to pay and the commissioner shall make the determination of such ability, shall bill for and shall collect for care of such patients in the same manner and under the same procedures, terms and conditions as are authorized under the laws governing cases of patients in state humane institutions. If town paupers with chronic illnesses other than tuberculosis admitted to said chronic disease hospitals are deemed by the Commissioner of Public Health not to be in need of definitive hospital or restorative care, towns shall be liable for the support of such paupers after two weeks’ notice from said commissioner.