This bill amends the eligibility criteria for local assistance by stipulating that only United States citizens or permanent legal residents are eligible to receive such assistance. Specifically, it modifies RSA 165:1, I by replacing the term "person" with "United States citizen, or legal permanent resident," and includes the phrase "or herself" to ensure gender neutrality. The bill clarifies that assistance will be provided by the overseers of public welfare in a town to eligible individuals who are poor and unable to support themselves, regardless of their residence status.

The fiscal impact of this bill is projected to be indeterminable, as it may lead to a reduction in municipal welfare costs due to a decrease in the number of individuals and families eligible for assistance. The New Hampshire Municipal Association suggests that this could result in lower local expenditures, although the exact financial implications are uncertain and are expected to manifest after FY 2025. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 165:1