The bill amends the Public Assistance Act to clarify eligibility for general public assistance (GPA) and introduces new provisions regarding resources and income. It specifies that individual retirement accounts will be exempt from being counted as resources when determining eligibility for GPA. Additionally, the bill outlines that general public assistance will only be available to U.S. citizens or legally residing aliens, and it establishes criteria for individuals eligible for assistance based on medical conditions. The bill mandates that applicants for GPA must apply for medical assistance and cooperate with the determination process for federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

Furthermore, the bill amends the regulations related to the ABLE program to protect funds from creditor processes, ensuring that these funds cannot be seized or used to pay debts. The previous provision that allowed the state of residency to be a creditor of an ABLE account upon the death of the designated beneficiary has been removed. This act will take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
332: 40-6-3.1, 42-7.2-20.8