HI SB905

Transfers the Office of Community Services from the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to the Department of Human Services, effective July 1, 2009.

Establishes the Office of Community Services within the Department of Human Services to coordinate programs serving low-income persons, disadvantaged persons, refugees, and immigrants, including the progressive neighborhoods program, Hawaii office of economic opportunity, refugee resettlement program, and state immigrant services center.

Creates an Executive Director position (appointed by the governor without regard to civil service rules) to head the Office and oversee planning, evaluation, and coordination of services for vulnerable populations.

Authorizes the Department of Human Services to establish a pilot project (through June 30, 2011) to provide legal and social services to undocumented immigrants and refugees who are victims of domestic violence or sexual assault, including assistance with restraining orders, Violence Against Women Act petitions, U-visas, job training, and case management.

Transfers 16.0 full-time equivalent positions and all associated appropriations, records, equipment, and contracts from the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to the Department of Human Services, with no loss of employee benefits or seniority.