HI HB1790

Requires the Office of Youth Services to implement a five-year Safe Places for Youth pilot program beginning July 1, 2015, coordinating a network of safe places where youth can access safety, advice, guidance, programs, and services.

Establishes the position of Safe Places for Youth program coordinator to coordinate the network, maintain listings of safe places, provide training, build awareness in partnership with schools and youth organizations, and convene annual meetings to assess program effectiveness.

Permits minors under 21 to consent to services without parental consent if the provider cannot contact parents, parents refuse consent but returning home would cause harm, or the minor refuses to provide contact information but returning home would cause harm.

Provides immunity from civil or criminal liability to safe place providers and related service providers, except in cases of gross negligence or willful or wanton acts or omissions.

Appropriates funds for the program coordinator position and residential options for the pilot program, which terminates on June 30, 2019.