This bill amends RSA 126-A by adding a new section that outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) regarding the management of federal benefits, including social security payments, supplemental security income, and veterans benefits for children in its care. The department is required to assess each child's eligibility for these benefits within 60 days of entering care and apply for them on the child's behalf if eligible. The bill stipulates that if the department becomes the representative payee for a child, it must not use the child's benefits to cover the costs of their care but may use them for unmet needs. Additionally, the department must establish an appropriate account to manage the child's benefits and provide annual accounting to relevant parties.

The bill also includes an appropriation of $1 for the biennium ending June 30, 2027, to support the management of these federal benefits. It is projected that the implementation of this bill will result in significant costs, including an estimated loss of federal revenue and operational costs for the department, amounting to approximately $3.2 million in the first year. The effective date of the bill is set for January 1, 2026.