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 this period prior to applying for assistance, with acceptable evidence including 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 a change in language to ensure inclusivity by replacing "he" with "he or she" in the eligibility criteria. Furthermore, it removes the previous definition of "residence" as stated in RSA 21:6-a, thereby allowing municipalities to define residency as they see fit within the new guidelines. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 165:1