The "Help for Low Income Seniors Act of 2026" aims to enhance financial eligibility for the Medicare savings program by removing the resource limit that previously restricted access. Specifically, the bill amends RSA 167 by inserting a new section, 167:4-g, which allows the Department of Health and Human Services to administer the Medicare savings program in accordance with federal law and, subject to approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), to make the low-income subsidy for Medicare Part D available to residents to assist with prescription drug costs. This change is expected to significantly increase the number of individuals qualifying for the program, with an estimated 2,033 new beneficiaries anticipated.

The fiscal impact of the bill indicates that while it does not provide new funding or positions, it is expected to incur costs of approximately $5.9 million annually, with a split of $3.6 million in federal funds and $2.3 million in general funds. The removal of asset limits is projected to benefit both qualified Medicaid beneficiaries and specified low-income beneficiaries, leading to increased state expenditures. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, pending CMS approval for the low-income subsidy aspect.