Bill > SB1098

This bill addresses the critical issue of unaccompanied homeless youth in Hawaii by appropriating state general revenue funds to the Department of Human Services to provide emergency shelter and services across all Hawaiian islands (Hawaii, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and Oahu). The bill is motivated by alarming statistics that show one in ten young adults (ages 18-25) and one in thirty adolescents (ages 13-17) experience homelessness without parental supervision annually. The legislature recognizes the significant challenges faced by these youth, including high rates of mental health problems, involvement in foster care and juvenile justice systems, and increased vulnerability to physical harm, particularly among LGBTQ+ youth. Specifically, the bill aims to create emergency shelter and support services to address the multiple threats faced by homeless youth, such as unmet basic needs, untreated mental health issues, substance use, educational disruption, health risks, sexual exploitation, and suicide potential. The appropriated funds will be used to establish comprehensive support across the state, with the legislation set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and funding allocated for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1098&year=2026