HI HB1499

Establishes a statewide literacy program within the Department of Human Services to increase Hawaii's literacy rates and benefit children and families.

Authorizes the Department of Human Services to contract with third-party organizations and nonprofit organizations to implement the literacy program and provide direct services.

Appropriates funds for fiscal years 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 to establish the statewide literacy program, including all program costs and staff hiring (specific appropriation amount not specified in bill text).

Cites existing nonprofit success with literacy programs including Read Aloud America (serving 89 schools and over 328,000 adults and children since 1999) and Read to Me International as models for the statewide initiative.

Takes effect on July 1, 2015.