HI HB973

Appropriates $5,400,000 from general revenues of Hawaii 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% from February through October 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic, growing from previous levels to 6,814 recipients in October with projection of 6,834 by year-end.

Current monthly general assistance allowance of $388 (41% of standard of need) is insufficient to cover living expenses for disabled individuals on fixed income; without additional funds, payments would need to be reduced in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2020-2021.

Department projects an $8,400,000 total shortfall for fiscal year 2020-2021 and anticipates drawing the entire $3,000,000 from the interim assistance reimbursement special fund beginning in December 2020.

Recommended by the governor for immediate passage as an emergency measure under Hawaii Constitution Article VII, Section 9; takes effect upon approval.