Bill > SB1420

This bill makes the Safe Spaces for Youth Pilot Program a permanent initiative within Hawaii's Office of Youth Services (OYS), designed to provide comprehensive support for homeless youth and young adults aged 18-24. The program requires collaboration between various state and county departments, including education, corrections, health, human services, and law enforcement, to identify and place homeless youth in appropriate shelters. OYS is authorized to contract with nonprofit organizations to provide shelters, with specific requirements that these organizations have necessary qualifications and licenses, and that youth under 18 are not housed with young adults. The bill allows shelters to admit youth for up to 90 days without parental consent and mandates that these shelters provide essential services such as overnight lodging, hot meals, medical and behavioral health services, and education and employment support. Additionally, the Office of Youth Services must submit a report to the legislature before each regular session, detailing the program's progress and impact. The legislation aims to address youth homelessness by creating a structured, supportive framework for identifying and assisting vulnerable young people across Hawaii.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1420&year=2025