Allowing court-appointed guardians to receive Temporary Assistance to Needy Families benefits.
Impact
The proposed changes are expected to have a significant impact on the utilization of TANF in New Hampshire. It is estimated that approximately 3,497 children living with unrelated adults could potentially become eligible for TANF benefits due to this bill. However, the Department of Health and Human Services anticipates that only about 297 of these children, or 8.5%, will actually receive TANF, based on current rates of TANF receipt among eligible children.
Summary
Senate Bill 172 aims to allow court-appointed guardians to access Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits. This legislative change would enable children living with unrelated court-appointed guardians to qualify for TANF, thereby expanding the definition of who can provide care and support for needy children. The bill amends existing New Hampshire law (RSA 167:6) to include 'court-appointed guardian' in the list of specified relatives eligible for public assistance programs.
Contention
Discussions surrounding SB172 may bring forth concerns related to the state budget given the projected increase in expenditures associated with expanding TANF eligibility. The estimated costs for the program, reaching over $2.1 million annually, are fully federally funded but could raise discussions about the long-term sustainability of such programs in light of potential budget constraints. Stakeholders may also debate the effectiveness of TANF in adequately supporting children in need, particularly those in foster care or under the guardianship of adults without familial ties.
Establish a pilot program to provide benefits for menstrual hygiene products and diapers for individuals who receive temporary assistance for needy families, and to make an appropriation therefor.