HI HB2038

Establishes state goals for poverty reduction and socio-cultural advancement by requiring the Department of Human Services to reduce by 50% by 2050 the number of families that are employed but asset limited and income constrained (ALICE households).

Finds that over 33% of Hawaii's residents live in ALICE households with no financial safety net, despite being employed with incomes too low to meet the state's basic cost of living.

Notes that Hawaii's basic cost of living ($36,912 annually for a single adult) is more than double the Federal Poverty Level ($14,820 annually).

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 346-14 to add this poverty reduction goal as a duty of the Department of Human Services, aligned with the Hawaii State Planning Act's policy to assist individuals facing economic hardship.

Takes effect upon approval.