HI SB1127

Appropriates $3,200,000 from general revenues for fiscal year 2020-2021 to address budget shortfall in the general assistance program under the Department of Human Services.

General assistance caseload increased more than 31 percent from February through October 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic, with projections of 6,834 recipients by end of fiscal year.

Current monthly general assistance allowance is $388 (41 percent of standard of need), and without additional funding, the department cannot maintain this amount for the projected caseload.

Department previously withdrew $202,222.97 from the interim assistance reimbursement special fund in fiscal year 2019-2020 and anticipates withdrawing the entire $3,000,000 balance starting December 2020.

Act takes effect upon approval and is recommended by the governor for immediate passage as an emergency measure under Article VII, Section 9 of the Hawaii Constitution.