HI HB581

Appropriates funding from general revenues for fiscal years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 to support the Hawaii zero to three court, which provides specialized services for maltreated infants and toddlers under age three involved in the child welfare system.

Funds designated for one full-time program manager position, one full-time case manager position, parent transportation to visit children, emergency housing assistance, parent incentive programs, program evaluation, training and professional development, and visitation and parent coaching service contracts.

Establishes that the Hawaii zero to three court operates through monthly case conferences and court hearings with a team including a family court judge, guardian ad litem, parents' counsel, deputy attorneys general, and social workers to improve outcomes for very young children and their families.

Cites evaluation findings showing the program successfully reduces parental substance use, improves reunification outcomes, decreases foster care length of stay and placement changes, and increases parent-child visitation frequency.

Takes effect July 1, 2050.