New Hampshire Senate Bill SB591

New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/24
• Refer: 2/1/24
• Report Pass: 2/27/24
• Report Pass: 3/19/24
• Engrossed: 4/2/24
• Refer: 4/2/24
• Report Pass: 4/25/24
• Refer: 5/2/24
• Report Pass: 5/16/24
• Enrolled: 6/10/24
• Chaptered: 6/20/24
• Passed: 6/20/24

Caption

Modifying definitions, claims procedures, and funding relating to the youth development center settlement fund and claims administration.

Impact

If enacted, SB591 would significantly alter the landscape of claims procedures for victims of abuse at the YDC. The bill's provisions would allow claimants to receive compensation up to $2.5 million in cases of egregious sexual abuse, while establishing clearer processes for determining claims and ensuring that administrative costs are covered. Additionally, the creation of a structured settlement option allows for awards to be paid over time, potentially alleviating budgetary strain on the state while still delivering justice to the claimants. This nuanced approach aims to deliver timely support to victims while adhering to fiscal responsibility.

Summary

Senate Bill 591 (SB591) modifies existing definitions, claims procedures, and funding arrangements related to the Youth Development Center (YDC) settlement fund. The bill aims to improve the handling of claims made by former residents of the YDC who have suffered various forms of abuse. Key changes include an expansion of the scope of covered conduct, increased caps on settlement awards, and the introduction of provisions for claim awards to be paid in installments. These modifications are designed to provide more comprehensive support and more expeditious resolutions to those affected by past abuses within the YDC system.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB591 highlights concerns regarding the potential challenges of funding the increased caps on settlement awards. Critics have raised questions about the practicality of maintaining the $75 million annual cap on total payouts from the settlement fund, and whether this limit could hinder legitimate claims if not managed properly. Furthermore, the administrative discretion granted to the claims administrator has led to discussions about the need for accountability and checks to prevent misuse of the fund. The effectiveness of the claims process and the adequacy of support for victims are expected to be focal points of contention in ongoing legislative discussions.