HI HB765

Appropriates funds from general revenues to the housing first special fund for fiscal year 2015-2016 to support the Department of Human Services in administering housing first programs for chronically homeless individuals.

Establishes that housing first programs provide housing and support services to chronically homeless individuals without preconditions of treatment acceptance, with priority given to the most vulnerable populations.

Requires that housing first programs include robust support services based on assertive engagement, harm-reduction approaches to addiction, and tenant protections and leases for program participants.

References the state's existing 658 permanent housing placements through federal Shelter Plus Care and Veterans Administration assisted supportive housing programs as models for the housing first initiative.

Bill effective date set for July 1, 2050 (note: specific appropriation amounts are blank in the legislation).