Bill > SB58

This bill establishes a framework for the Department of Human Services to provide emergency public assistance during a Governor-declared state of emergency. Specifically, the bill allows the department to administer financial support to eligible residents who are not otherwise covered by existing public assistance programs. To qualify, individuals must be bona fide Hawaii residents, provide social security numbers, and meet income criteria. The assistance is targeted at individuals between 18 and 65 who are unable to engage in substantial gainful activity due to the emergency and do not qualify for federal supplemental security income. The monthly assistance cannot exceed the federal supplemental security income benefit payment for the state. The bill also allows the department to use funds from the Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund to provide this emergency assistance, with the expectation that expended funds will be reimbursed through federal funds or a subsequent general fund appropriation. Recipients must comply with all program requirements, and failure to do so can result in disqualification from assistance for up to 12 months. The bill is set to take effect on December 31, 2050, providing a long-term mechanism for supporting residents during future emergencies.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=58&year=2025