HI SB129

Amends Section 346-17.6, Hawaii Revised Statutes to clarify that providers of emergency shelter and related services to minors are immune from civil or criminal liability, except in cases of gross negligence or willful or wanton conduct.

Expands the definition of "provider" to include organizations that are not child placing organizations or child caring institutions, provided they meet five specific criteria including background checks, maintaining separation between unrelated adults and minor children, serving no more than five minors per day, keeping a register of admitted minors, and coordinating with the Department of Human Services.

Changes a requirement from "separate sleeping areas" to "separation" for unrelated adults and minor children, broadening the scope of the accommodation standards.

Makes permanent the amendments to the definition of "provider" by removing the June 30, 2023 sunset date that was included in Act 23, Session Laws of Hawaii 2021.

Effective date is December 31, 2050.