This bill amends RSA 165:1 regarding eligibility for local assistance by allowing municipalities to establish a residency requirement of up to 90 days for individuals seeking assistance. The new legal language specifies that individuals must demonstrate residency in the municipality for a period of time, which can be evidenced by documents such as a lease, car registration, or utility bill in their name. Additionally, the bill clarifies that assistance will be provided in accordance with the chapter and that no cash payments will be given directly to individuals or households.

The bill also includes the insertion of gender-neutral language, changing "he" to "he or she" in the context of individuals seeking assistance. Furthermore, it removes the previous definition of "residence" as stated in RSA 21:6-a, replacing it with the new guidelines that local governing bodies must adopt regarding general assistance. These guidelines will outline the application process, eligibility criteria, and appeal processes related to general assistance. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 165:1