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 also establishes that ownership of certain properties, such as a primary residence and a vehicle for disabled individuals, will not disqualify applicants from receiving assistance.

Additionally, the bill amends the regulations surrounding the ABLE program, ensuring that funds in these accounts are protected from creditor claims and cannot be seized to pay debts in the event of the death of the account's beneficiary. The previous provision that allowed the state of residency to be a creditor in such cases has been removed. This act will take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7687: 40-6-3.1, 42-7.2-20.8