Daisy Pierce

Dear Representatives, I am writing to express my strong opposition to House Bill 348, which would allow municipalities to impose a residency requirement of up to 90 days for individuals seeking local welfare assistance. This bill poses a serious threat to vulnerable individuals and families in need of immediate support and runs counter to New Hampshire's long-standing commitment to community care and compassion. The proposed residency requirement creates unnecessary and harmful barriers for individuals who may already be in crisis. People often turn to local welfare programs when they have no other options, such as when fleeing domestic violence, experiencing housing insecurity, or facing sudden financial hardships. A 90-day residency requirement would delay access to critical resources, forcing individuals and families to endure prolonged periods of instability and suffering. This policy would disproportionately affect the most vulnerable members of our society, including those experiencing housing insecurity (i.e., elderly, living on a fixed income, living with a disability, etc.), survivors of abuse, and those displaced by house fires or other emergencies. Furthermore, it could undermine public health and safety by increasing the number of people unable to access basic needs like shelter, food, and medical care. It is important to recognize that local welfare assistance exists to provide a safety net in times of urgent need. Adding restrictive residency requirements not only contradicts the purpose of these programs but also risks shifting the burden to nonprofit organizations, hospitals, and other already-strained resources in our communities. Instead of implementing policies that limit access to essential services, I urge you to consider measures that strengthen support systems and address the root causes of poverty and displacement. Ensuring that local welfare programs remain accessible to all who need them, regardless of how long they have lived in a community, reflects the values of fairness, compassion, and humanity that New Hampshire residents hold dear. Thank you for taking the time to consider my concerns. I urge you to oppose HB 348 and to advocate for policies that protect and support all members of our communities. Sincerely, Daisy Pierce, Gilford NH