Bill > SB1610

This bill establishes the Ohana Zones Program within the Statewide Office on Homelessness and Housing Solutions to provide temporary housing and services to homeless individuals and families using a "housing first" approach. The program will create temporary housing sites on public or private lands, with specific guidelines for site selection and development, including the ability to use off-grid technologies for utilities. Ohana Zones will offer secure dwelling spaces (which can be private or communal), access to hygiene facilities, medical and social support services, and transportation to appointments. The bill defines "Ohana Zone" as a place that addresses basic needs of homeless individuals and provides wrap-around services with the goal of transitioning people into affordable housing. The Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation is authorized to provide tax exemptions for Ohana Zones projects, and the program will be subject to annual legislative reporting requirements that detail site identification, milestones, program performance, and impact on homelessness. The bill also appropriates state funds for developing and managing these temporary housing solutions, with a focus on creating transitional housing options that support individuals experiencing homelessness.

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

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1610&year=2026