HI HB470

Amends Section 346-17.6, Hawaii Revised Statutes, to clarify that providers of no-cost emergency shelter and related services to minors receive immunity from civil or criminal liability, except in cases of gross negligence or willful or wanton acts or omissions.

Requires providers to maintain separation (rather than just separate sleeping areas) for unrelated adults and minor children.

Expands the definition of "provider" to include organizations that are not licensed child placing organizations or child caring institutions, provided they meet five criteria including criminal background checks, separation of adults and children, serving no more than five minors daily, maintaining admission records, and coordinating with the department.

Defines "no cost emergency shelter and related services" as accommodation for up to 30 days (extendable for emergencies) including beds, meals, showers, transportation, and supportive services such as counseling, medical care, education assistance, and aftercare services.

Makes permanent the amendments to Act 23 (Session Laws of Hawaii 2021) by removing the June 30, 2023 sunset date; establishes new effective date of June 30, 2050.