HI SR98

Directs the Coordinator on Homelessness to assemble a working group to identify innovative housing solutions for homeless Native Hawaiian families, including traditional culturally based solutions such as "kauhale" housing complexes

Native Hawaiians represent 28% of Hawaii's homeless population despite the overall homeless population served increasing from 13,000 in 2009 to approximately 14,000 in 2012

Working group to investigate suitable federal, state, county, and private land for innovative housing projects and prepare a plan for a demonstration housing project that can serve as a statewide model

Working group membership to include 21 entities spanning federal, state, and county agencies, academic institutions, non-profit organizations, and Hawaiian cultural practitioners

Working group required to report findings and recommendations, including potential land sites and a draft demonstration project plan, to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2014 Regular Session