HB 2753 Summary

• Establishes a three-year pilot program for "ohana zones" to provide shelter, basic needs, and wrap-around services to individuals experiencing homelessness, with first zone operational by June 30, 2019 and dwelling construction costs capped at $15,000.

• Creates an emergency department homelessness assessment pilot program requiring multidisciplinary teams in hospital emergency departments to identify homeless individuals, conduct assessments, and provide referrals to social services.

• Authorizes the Department of Human Services to establish a voluntary return-to-home pilot program providing transportation and assistance to help homeless individuals reunite with family in their home states.

• Establishes a pre-arrest diversion pilot project allowing deputy sheriffs to refer individuals with mental health or substance abuse challenges who commit nonviolent, nonfelony offenses on state property to community mental health services instead of arrest.

• Appropriates funds for the coordinated statewide homeless initiative for homelessness prevention and rapid rehousing services, and establishes a pilot facility to provide shelter and mental health treatment for homeless individuals with severe mental illness subject to assisted community treatment orders or guardianships.