New Hampshire Settled Lawsuit Over Home Care Services
The state agreed to improve home-based care for 4,000 disabled residents following a 2021 class action lawsuit.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Special Needs
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New Hampshire has reached a legal settlement to overhaul the Choices for Independence program, which provides essential at-home support for 4,000 adults with disabilities. This agreement resolves claims that the state failed to provide necessary care services, leading to severe shortages for program participants.
Why it matters
The settlement addresses persistent caregiver shortages that left many residents unable to meet daily living needs. By mandating systemic reforms, the agreement seeks to stabilize home-based support and ensure participants receive the consistent assistance required to live independently.
The settlement, finalized on October 5, 2026, requires the state to implement changes over four years for 4,000 participants. The agreement mandates regular provider network analyses and the creation of a new online service portal.
The players
New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
The state agency responsible for overseeing public health and social programs, including the administration of long-term care services for residents with disabilities.
Disability Rights Center
A legal advocacy group focused on protecting the civil rights of people with disabilities through litigation and policy oversight.
NH Legal Assistance
A non-profit law firm providing civil legal aid to low-income New Hampshire residents, often focusing on housing and health care access.
AARP Foundation
The charitable affiliate of the AARP that utilizes legal advocacy and litigation to support the rights and economic security of older adults.
The details
To improve access to care, the state will increase reimbursement rates for home health caregivers to help stabilize the labor force. Additionally, the department will launch a new, broadened grievance system designed to proactively identify and address unmet service needs among participants. The state is also required to provide biannual compliance reports to track progress on these reforms over the next four years.
Timeline
2021: Class action lawsuit initiated against the state.
October 5, 2026: Settlement reached in class action lawsuit.
November 2026: Trial originally scheduled for the lawsuit.
Next four years: Duration of mandated programmatic reforms.
The Home Front
This agreement reflects a broader movement toward ensuring home-based care options for the disabled remain viable as a primary alternative to institutional living. It follows the pattern set by the Olmstead v. L.C. decision, requiring states to prioritize community integration for residents.
Participants and families should look for updates regarding the new online portal to monitor provider availability. Contact your case manager to determine if the upcoming changes to grievance reporting might help you secure additional support.
The takeaway
This settlement creates a structured path for improving home care access over the next four years. Participants should document any ongoing service gaps to utilize the new grievance process once it is implemented.
Further reading
For more information on finding resources for family members, visit the Special Needs section.
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Do you trust that your state government effectively manages home care services for people with disabilities?
