Bill > LD1178

This bill addresses municipalities that improperly move individuals to avoid responsibility for general assistance support by making several key changes to existing law. The bill reduces the timeframe for the Department of Health and Human Services to investigate disputes from 30 to 15 working days and shortens the appeals period to 15 days. It introduces financial penalties for municipalities that violate the law, including a requirement to pay 6% annual interest on unreimbursed general assistance costs and a potential $10,000 penalty for repeat violations within a 12-month period. The bill also creates a legal presumption that if a person is moved between municipalities, the moving municipality is likely attempting to avoid general assistance responsibilities. Additionally, the bill mandates that the municipality where an assistance application is filed must provide support during residency disputes and be reimbursed within 10 days. Starting in January 2026, the department must publish an annual public report detailing violations, reimbursement amounts, and enforcement actions. These changes aim to discourage municipalities from improperly transferring individuals and ensure more consistent and fair delivery of general assistance support.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1178&snum=132