Bill > HB431

This bill establishes comprehensive provisions for addressing homelessness in Hawaii through two main initiatives: Kauhale projects and Ohana Zones. For Kauhale projects, the bill mandates that any state-funded housing must be connected to public utilities, charge rent no more than 30% of area median income, require at least two bidders for projects over $1 million, and involve community consultation before construction. The bill defines Kauhale as communal living spaces with individual household units designed to address the basic needs of individuals experiencing houselessness. Additionally, the bill requires annual reporting on these projects, including data on occupancy, services, and participant outcomes. For the Ohana Zones Program, the bill establishes a permanent program within the Office on Homelessness and Housing Solutions to provide temporary housing and services, potentially using public or private lands and offering facilities like secure dwelling spaces, medical support, and transportation services. The bill also appropriates significant funds ($18.6 million and $24.3 million in successive fiscal years) for the Kauhale initiative and additional funds for the Ohana Zones Program. Furthermore, it mandates an audit of the Kauhale initiative, requires quarterly reports on fund expenditures, and makes administrative changes such as removing the term "Governor's" from the Coordinator on Homelessness title and specifying that the Coordinator will report directly to the Director of Human Services.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=431&year=2025