HI SB1215

Appropriates $3,000,000 for fiscal years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 to the Department of Human Services to administer housing first programs for chronically homeless individuals.

Appropriates $2,500,000 for fiscal years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 for rapid re-housing programs to assist homeless individuals and families in obtaining permanent housing and avoiding homelessness.

Appropriates $7,000,000 for fiscal years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 to the Hawaii Public Housing Authority for the state rent supplement program, which provides ongoing subsidies (capped at $500 per month) to homeless individuals and families at risk of homelessness.

Establishes that housing first programs prioritize chronically homeless individuals and provide housing without preconditions of treatment acceptance, while rapid re-housing and rent supplements target working individuals, seniors, disabled persons, and families closer to financial self-sufficiency.

Takes effect July 1, 2017.