HI SB897

Establishes the Hawaii Interagency Council on Homelessness as an advisory body under the Department of Human Services with the director of human services serving as ad hoc coordinator.

Council members include representatives from 26 entities including state agencies, county governments, federal agencies, nonprofits, and community organizations; members serve without compensation but are reimbursed for expenses.

Council shall develop a ten-year plan to end homelessness with emphasis on eliminating chronic homelessness, coordinate statewide strategies, and identify funding opportunities including federal resources.

Council responsibilities include replicating functions of the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness, assembling data and research, recommending policy changes, promoting systems integration of health and housing services, and conducting annual public reporting to the governor and legislature.

Council shall report annually to the governor, legislature, county mayors, and county councils on progress implementing the ten-year plan and host an annual homelessness conference.