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Bill

HB 661

relative to the department of health and human services management of social security payments, supplemental security income payments, and veterans benefits for children in foster care.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Pat Long and 4 co-sponsors

Establishes procedures for state management of Social Security, SSI, and veterans benefits for foster children in custody, clarifying fund handling and use requirements.

Enrolled (in recess of) 06/04/2026
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 661

Legislative bill overview

HB 661 addresses how New Hampshire's Department of Health and Human Services manages Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and veterans benefits for children in foster care. The bill establishes procedures for handling these benefit payments on behalf of foster children, likely clarifying responsibilities for collection, accounting, and use of these funds.

Why is this important

Foster children in state custody often receive federal benefits, and proper management of these funds is critical for ensuring money reaches the child's care needs and future security. Clear statutory guidance prevents mismanagement, ensures compliance with federal requirements, and protects vulnerable children's financial interests.

Potential points of contention

  • How benefits should be used: Disagreement over whether funds should support the child's current care costs or be preserved as savings for when the child exits the system
  • State agency authority vs. oversight: Questions about appropriate balance between DHHS management discretion and external accountability/auditing requirements
  • Implementation burden: Concerns about administrative complexity and costs for the state to track and manage multiple benefit streams for individual children

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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