Bill > HCR84

This concurrent resolution requests the State Auditor to conduct a comprehensive audit of the funds appropriated to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) under Act 279 from 2022, which allocated $600 million to eliminate the Native Hawaiian housing waitlist. The resolution highlights that despite the significant funding and intent to address housing needs, the waitlist of over 28,700 Native Hawaiian beneficiaries remains largely unchanged as of late 2024. While DHHL reports having encumbered approximately $193.7 million and projected assistance for 1,489 applicants, and claims to have attached the entire appropriation to projects targeting over 7,500 homes and lots, the department has not submitted its required Annual Activity Report as of March 5, 2025. The resolution seeks to ensure accountability and transparency by requesting an audit that will examine the expenditures in relation to the 2020 Beneficiaries Study Applicant Report, which showed that 76% of beneficiaries prefer single-family homes or vacant lots, and 16% prefer rental or rent-to-own options. The resolution directs that copies be transmitted to the Auditor and the Chairperson of the Hawaiian Homes Commission.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HCR&billnumber=84&year=2025