HI HB596

Appropriates funds for fiscal year 2015-2016 to support multiple homeless and housing programs administered by the Department of Human Services and Department of Health, including substance abuse treatment, mental health services, clean and sober housing, and rental assistance.

Establishes a shallow subsidy rental assistance program (maximum $300 per month) for homeless working individuals and families ready to rent permanent housing, with participants required to pay at least 40% of adjusted gross income toward rent.

Mandates the Department of Human Services establish a three-year return-to-home pilot program to assist eligible homeless individuals with voluntary transportation assistance to reunite with family in their home state, extending the program deadline to December 31, 2018.

Appropriates funds for housing first programs supporting chronically homeless individuals through permanent housing placements and supportive services, homelessness prevention and rapid re-housing programs, and shelter plus care program matching funds.

Transfers administrative responsibility for the Homeless Assistance Working Group from the Department of Human Services to the Legislature, requiring Senate and House human services committee chairpersons to convene the group, and extends the group's dissolution date to June 30, 2017.