Bill > SB360

This bill establishes a permanent Return-to-Home program administered by the Statewide Office on Homelessness and Housing Solutions to help homeless individuals voluntarily return to their home states. The program will be implemented through public-private partnerships with nonprofit or for-profit organizations, and will assist eligible homeless individuals who are voluntarily seeking to return home, have proper legal clearance if on parole or probation, and lack financial resources for transportation. Participants must be indigent and can only use the program once, signing an agreement to that effect. The program will work with local airlines, cruise lines, and other travel-related entities to coordinate transportation and will provide comprehensive support including helping participants obtain identification, access transportation, navigate airport security, and maintain personal hygiene. The bill appropriates funding for a full-time equivalent position to supervise the program and cover operational expenses, and requires the office to submit an annual report to the legislature about the program's progress. The bill repeals the previous pilot program established in 2023 and transforms the initiative into a permanent statewide service, with implementation set to begin on July 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=360&year=2026