This bill amends the existing law under RSA chapter 165 regarding the liability of relatives to support poor persons. The key change is the modification of the language in RSA 165:19, where the obligation for relatives to assist poor family members is shifted from a mandatory "shall" to a discretionary "may." Additionally, the bill specifies that a relative may be deemed able to assist if their income is sufficient to provide a reasonable subsistence. The bill also introduces new provisions stating that aid to eligible individuals cannot be withheld due to a legally liable relative's failure to respond or provide assistance. Furthermore, towns or cities that provide aid may seek reimbursement from relatives who have the means to do so without financial hardship.

The bill also removes the previous legal consequences for relatives who refuse to provide assistance, including the potential for contempt of court and imprisonment. The effective date for these changes is set for January 1, 2026. The fiscal impact of this bill is considered indeterminable, as the requirement for familial support is rarely enforced, and the Department of Health and Human Services does not expect any significant changes to state revenues or expenditures as a result of this legislation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 165:19
As Amended by the House: 165:19
As Amended by the Senate: 165:20
Version adopted by both bodies: 165:19