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 foster 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 provide annual accounting of the benefits and notify relevant parties of any applications or decisions regarding the child's benefits.

The bill also includes an appropriation of $1 for the biennium ending June 30, 2027, to support the management of these federal benefits. However, it is projected that the implementation of this bill will result in significant financial impacts, including a loss of approximately $2.18 million in federal revenue in the first year and ongoing operational costs estimated at $2.92 million annually thereafter. The effective date of the bill is set for January 1, 2026.