The bill amends the Public Assistance Act to clarify eligibility for general public assistance (GPA) by exempting individual retirement accounts from being counted as resources when determining eligibility. It introduces a new provision that specifies eligibility criteria for GPA, including that it will only be available to U.S. citizens or legally residing aliens, and outlines conditions under which individuals suffering from illness or injury can qualify for assistance. The bill also establishes that ownership of certain properties, such as a primary residence and a single motor vehicle, will not disqualify individuals from receiving assistance.

Additionally, the bill amends the regulations surrounding the ABLE program by prohibiting the state from being a creditor against an ABLE account in the event of the death of the account's beneficiary. This ensures that funds in these accounts are protected from creditor processes and cannot be seized to pay debts. The act will take effect immediately upon passage.

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