This bill amends existing laws to allow public property to be utilized for aiding and sheltering the homeless, while also providing legal protections for governmental units involved in such activities. Specifically, it inserts provisions into RSA 35-B:6 that permit the use of public property for temporary shelter and aid for the homeless, contingent upon prior approval from the appropriate authority. Additionally, it establishes that governmental authorities and their employees will not be held liable for negligence claims related to their duty of care in designated areas created for the homeless, unless there is evidence of intentional misconduct or conscious disregard for safety.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section, RSA 507-B:12, which clarifies that governmental units providing assistance such as temporary shelter, food, or clothing to those in need will not have a duty of care to prevent injuries or damages arising from such aid, unless caused by intentional misconduct or conscious disregard for safety. It also exempts governmental units from all statutes and common law related to tenancy and occupancy when providing temporary shelter. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 35-B:6