HI HB395

Requires the Office of Youth Services to implement a five-year safe places for youth pilot program beginning July 1, 2016, coordinating a network of safe places where youth aged 14-21 in crisis can access safety, advice, guidance, and services.

Establishes the position of safe places for youth pilot program coordinator to oversee the network, establish assessment tools and protocols, provide training, and build public awareness in partnership with schools and youth organizations.

Allows youth under 18 years of age to consent to services without parental consent if the service provider reasonably determines the youth understands the services, rules are necessary for safety, and either parental contact was unsuccessful, refused consent with documented harm concerns, or the youth refused to provide contact information with documented harm concerns.

Requires service providers to report suspected child abuse or neglect to the Department of Human Services or police in accordance with Hawaii law and to document efforts to contact parents or guardians.

Appropriates funds for the coordinator position and temporary housing for youth participating in the pilot program for fiscal years 2015-2016 and 2016-2017, with the program set to expire June 30, 2021.