This bill amends RSA 165:1 to establish a residency requirement for local assistance, allowing municipalities to require proof of residency for up to 90 days before providing assistance. The language specifies that individuals seeking assistance must provide acceptable evidence of residency, such as a lease, utility bill, or government-issued document. Additionally, the bill allows for special consideration for non-residents fleeing domestic violence or similar situations, and permits local assistance administrators to provide emergency assistance to non-residents for up to 72 hours while they coordinate with their town of origin.

The bill also introduces several new guidelines that local governing bodies must adopt regarding general assistance, including the application process, eligibility criteria, and appeals process. Notably, it establishes a monthly local assistance limit of not less than 50 percent of the federal poverty level. The existing provision that assistance may be provided regardless of residency has been deleted, and the requirement for assistance to not be given in cash payments remains intact. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 165:1
As Amended by the House: 165:1