HI HB347

Department of Public Safety directed to prepare a plan for creating a pu'uhonua (wellness center) for culturally-based substance abuse treatment and intervention on state-owned lands, with preference given to the former Kulani correctional facility on the island of Hawaii

Plan should be developed in collaboration with Ohana Ho'opakele and other restorative justice groups, incorporating Hawaiian paradigms of ho'oponopono (restoring relationships) and aloha 'aina (sustainable living)

Department must report findings, recommendations, and any necessary budget requests to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2012 regular legislative session

Bill addresses rising substance abuse rates among Native Hawaiian populations, particularly youth, and links substance abuse to poverty, crime, homelessness, and family violence