SB 2442 Summary

• Establishes the kauhale pilot program administered by the lieutenant governor to provide permanent housing and services to homeless individuals, operating until June 30, 2023.

• Kauhale communities may consist of tiny homes priced at no more than $25,000 per unit with common areas, shared facilities, and services including medical support, job opportunities, and transportation assistance.

• Designates six sites on Oahu and at least one site each on Hawaii, Kauai, and Maui islands for kauhale development on public or private lands.

• Exempts the kauhale pilot program from Hawaii public procurement code, county permitting and zoning requirements, environmental impact statements, and numerous other state and county regulations during the pilot period to expedite implementation.

• Appropriates $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2020-2021 for facility construction, infrastructure, services, staffing, and administrative costs, plus $200,000 for two full-time staff positions with the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation.