HB 453 Summary

• Establishes a 4-year pilot program within the Department of Human Services to provide housing and child care vouchers to individuals released from incarceration who have sole or primary custody of children under age 18.

• Applicants must be Hawaii residents age 18 or older, scheduled for release within 6 months or released within the prior 6 months, and demonstrate verified employment or enrollment in substance abuse treatment, parenting skills, or other educational programs.

• Voucher recipients receive full subsidy of housing and child care expenses for the first 3 months, then must contribute a portion of monthly income; assistance continues for up to 2 years contingent on maintaining at least 20 hours per week of employment or combined employment and educational program participation.

• Department must submit interim report to legislature by January 2025 and final report by January 2027 detailing applicant numbers, voucher awards, compliance rates, and recommendations on program continuation.

• Appropriates unspecified funding from general revenues for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025; pilot program terminates June 30, 2027.