HI HB2522

Requires the Department of Health to establish a statewide continuum of stabilization beds by repurposing unused state facilities for short-term residential care of non-forensic patients with substance use or mental health conditions.

Mandates that patients in stabilization beds be assessed and triaged to clinically appropriate levels of care through the Hawaii Coordinated Access Resources Entry System (CARES).

Appropriates unspecified general revenue funds for fiscal year 2020-2021 to the Department of Health for implementation.

Addresses documented gaps in behavioral health services, noting that 64% of homeless individuals struggle with substance dependency and 36.4% of homeless single adults on Oahu suffer from mental illness.

Takes effect on December 31, 2059.