The bill amends the Public Assistance Act to clarify eligibility for general public assistance (GPA) and introduces new provisions regarding resources and income. It exempts individual retirement accounts from being counted as resources when determining eligibility for GPA. The bill specifies that assistance is available to residents who are U.S. citizens or legally residing aliens, and it outlines the criteria for individuals eligible for GPA based on medical conditions. Additionally, it establishes that ownership of certain properties, such as a primary home and a vehicle for transporting a disabled family member, will not disqualify individuals from receiving assistance.

Furthermore, the bill includes new provisions that protect funds in the ABLE program from creditor processes, ensuring that these funds cannot be seized to pay debts. It removes the previous provision that allowed the state to be a creditor of an ABLE account upon the death of the designated beneficiary. This act will take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2091: 40-6-3.1, 42-7.2-20.8