HI SCR97

Urges the State of Hawaii to establish the Puuhonua Program within the Department of Public Safety to support rehabilitation of post-incarcerated persons, parolees, and probationers.

Authorizes the Department of Public Safety to accept funding from non-profit organizations and non-government agencies to support the program.

Requests the Puuhonua Program develop partnerships with businesses, non-profit organizations, churches, unions, government agencies, schools, and other organizations focused on assisting post-incarcerated individuals.

Requests the program create a support network addressing housing, healthcare, vocational training, skill building, drug treatment, job searching, counseling, mentoring, and mental health services for program participants.

Names the program after the ancient Hawaiian concept of puuhonua—designated refuge sites that provided safe healing and protection for individuals in need.