Relative to caregiver respite and senior volunteer programs and making an appropriation therefor.
Impact
If enacted, this bill will have a significant impact on state laws regarding health services for the elderly and individuals with disabilities. It seeks to enhance resources available for caregivers, thereby supporting families that may be struggling with the challenges of caregiving. By ensuring that these programs are funded for the next two fiscal years, the state acknowledges the vital role that caregivers and volunteers play in providing care and companionship to senior citizens and those in need of assistance.
Summary
House Bill 704 aims to provide funding for various caregiver and senior volunteer programs in the state of New Hampshire. The bill appropriates specific sums to the Department of Health and Human Services for the Alzheimer's disease and related disorders (ADRD) caregiver respite program, as well as support for the foster grandparent program, the retired senior volunteer program, and the senior companion program. The funding includes $552,508 for the ADRD program and additional allocations for the other programs, ensuring that these critical services continue to receive the necessary financial support.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 704 appears to be positive, as it reflects a commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and investing in programs that directly benefit seniors and their caregivers. Legislators expressing support for the bill highlight the importance of these programs in promoting the well-being of both caregivers and those they assist. However, there might be some contention regarding the distribution of state funds and the potential need for greater resources in the future to accommodate growing populations of seniors.
Contention
Despite its overall positive reception, HB 704 may face scrutiny regarding fiscal priorities and whether the allocations are sufficient to meet the growing demand for these services. Questions may arise about whether $862,508 in total funding for the next biennium can adequately support the needs of all enrolled participants in these programs, particularly in light of an aging population and increasing prevalence of conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Discussions may also touch upon the sustainability of funding in subsequent years and the necessity of continuous evaluation of program efficacy.
Directing the department of health and human services to develop a public awareness campaign on brain health, Alzheimer's disease, and related dementias and making an appropriation therefor.
Relative to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and the Summer EBT program and making appropriations therefor and relative to providing disaster relief funding to municipalities after a natural disaster.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.