Bill > HCR97

This concurrent resolution urges the University of Hawaii to address student housing instability and basic needs insecurity based on findings from a 2020 Hope Center study. The study revealed that 58% of students across University of Hawaii institutions experienced basic needs insecurity, with 44% facing housing insecurity and 14% experiencing homelessness. Only 15% of students experiencing basic needs insecurity received emergency aid, with many unaware of available resources or believing they were ineligible. The resolution specifically requests the university to implement a homeless student stability and housing resource program, utilize the results of a 2025 survey by the University of Hawaii Basic Needs Committee to develop a comprehensive plan, and strengthen mental health services. The resolution notes that the current mental health staffing ratio is significantly below recommended standards, with the University of Hawaii at Manoa having only 0.5 full-time equivalent psychiatrists and 4.5 full-time equivalent psychologists for over 20,000 students. The document calls for increased awareness and access to support resources and directs certified copies of the resolution to be sent to the Chairperson of the Board of Regents and the University of Hawaii President.

Education, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HCR&billnumber=97&year=2025