HI SB2090

Appropriates $3,000,000 from general revenues to the Department of Human Services for fiscal year 2016-2017 to continue and expand the housing first program.

Expands housing first program services outside of Oahu to serve chronically homeless individuals on neighboring islands.

Establishes housing first principles including direct placement into housing without preconditions, robust support services, priority for chronically homeless individuals, harm-reduction approach to addictions, and tenant protections.

Identifies housing first as a nationally recognized best practice with documented success in reducing chronic homelessness by 70% in Portland, Oregon and saving $80,000 per person over two years in Los Angeles.

Takes effect July 1, 2016.