HI HB765

Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal year 2015-2016 to the housing first special fund under Hawaii Revised Statutes section 346-377 for the Department of Human Services to administer housing first programs for chronically homeless individuals.

Appropriates additional funds from the housing first special fund for fiscal year 2015-2016 for the Department of Human Services to continue administering housing first programs for chronically homeless individuals (specific dollar amounts left blank in bill text).

Establishes that housing first programs provide housing and support services for chronically homeless individuals, including those with addiction or mental illness, without preconditions for treatment compliance.

Defines housing first program principles including direct housing placement, robust support services, priority for chronically homeless participants, harm-reduction approach to addictions, and provision of leases with tenant protections.

Takes effect on July 1, 2050.