HB 1637 Summary

• Authorizes the director of finance to issue general obligation bonds for the rental housing revolving fund to develop, preserve, or rehabilitate affordable rental housing projects, with funds allocated for households at or below 30%, 50%, and 80% of median family income.

• Appropriates general revenues for fiscal year 2018-2019 to the Department of Human Services and Hawaii Public Housing Authority for homelessness mitigation programs including rent supplements for homeless families, housing first program services, rapid rehousing program, and family and elderly housing program operations.

• Directs the housing first program to provide housing and supportive services to homeless individuals with mental health or addiction issues and authorizes hiring of full-time equivalent positions.

• Requires the Hawaii Public Housing Authority to develop interim rules without regard to chapter 91, Hawaii Revised Statutes, for the rent supplement program assisting homeless families.

• Bill takes effect July 1, 2050.