HI HB1069

Amends Act 130 (2022) 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 definition of "youth" from ages 14-24 to under 25 years old and adds detailed definitions of homeless youth and youth at risk of homelessness, including those sharing housing, living in vehicles/parks, or in substandard conditions.

Requires state departments (education, health, human services, public safety) and county police to collaborate to identify homeless youth and coordinate placement at shelters; allows shelters to admit youth for up to 90 days without parental consent.

Contracts with nonprofit organizations to provide shelters offering overnight lodging, meals, showers, medical/behavioral health services, education and employment support, with facilities required to coordinate with juvenile justice and child welfare systems.

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; requires a report to the legislature by 30 days prior to the 2025 regular session.