HI HB734

Defines "housing first program rental assistance payments" as periodic rental assistance payments from the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation for eligible housing projects serving chronically homeless individuals in housing first programs.

Authorizes the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to make housing first program rental assistance payments using funds made available from the Department of Human Services pursuant to the housing first program.

Redefines "chronically homeless individual" as a person who has experienced homelessness for one year or longer, or who has experienced at least four episodes of homelessness in the last three years and has a disability.

Allows housing first programs to incorporate housing first program rental assistance payments as part of their service components, alongside financial assistance, case management, and support services.

Effective date: July 1, 2050.