HI SCR56

Requests the State Auditor to conduct a study assessing the impact of using Medicaid funds to cover treatment for homelessness, including costs for the chronically homeless population.

Study must consider coverage for behavioral health services (mental health and substance abuse), case management, personal care and assistance services, home and community-based services, and housing services.

Auditor must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2018 Regular Session convenes.

Resolution notes that Hawaii had 7,921 homeless individuals as of January 2016, a 4% increase from 2015, and that homeless persons face significant health care barriers and high costs.