HI HB1069

Amends Act 130 to establish an Office of Youth Services within the Department of Human Services to administer the safe spaces for youth pilot program providing shelter for homeless youth in each county.

Expands the age definition of "youth" from 14-24 years old to under 25 years old and adds comprehensive definitions of "youth experiencing homelessness" and "youth at risk of homelessness."

Requires state departments and county police to collaborate in identifying homeless youth and coordinating their placement at contracted nonprofit shelters providing assessment, services, overnight lodging, meals, medical/behavioral health services, and education/employment support.

Allows shelters to admit youth for up to 90 days without parental or guardian consent and ensures youth under juvenile justice or child welfare jurisdiction receive services from those systems as required by federal law.

Appropriates $4,496,870 for fiscal year 2023-2024 and $4,496,870 for fiscal year 2024-2025 to fund the pilot program, including two full-time equivalent positions and administrative costs, with a report due to the legislature by 30 days prior to the 2025 regular session.