HI HB2296

Establishes one additional deputy position in the Department of Human Services to be appointed under civil service exemptions in Hawaii Revised Statutes § 76-16(b)(16), with the deputy either in charge of welfare or other departmental functions as assigned by the director.

Justifies the position by noting the Department of Human Services manages a $2.5 billion budget (67% of all state federal operating funds), employs over 2,000 staff, and operates four divisions plus three attached agencies with diverse and complex programs.

Addresses the removal of a previous second deputy position by Act 223 (1994), which was eliminated during economic hardship but is now needed due to increased administrative complexity.

Cites growing departmental challenges including expanded federal programs (Affordable Care Act compliance), new integrated eligibility systems development (Kolea), increased accounting complexity (appropriation accounts expanded from 51 to 118), and extensive inter-agency collaboration requirements.

Takes effect July 1, 2014, with provisions ensuring the amendment survives the June 30, 2015 reenactment of § 76-16(b) under Act 159, Session Laws of Hawaii 2012.