HI HB439

Establishes an immigrant services and access unit within the office of community services to promote economic self-sufficiency, inclusion, and community integration for immigrants in Hawaii

Authorizes the unit to offer English language training, translation and interpretation, workforce development, legal services, citizenship assistance, and government services navigation programs

Services available to immigrants, refugees, Compact of Free Association residents, undocumented persons, and other persons regardless of immigration status

Appropriates unspecified funds for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025, including 2.0 FTE positions in year one and 5.0 FTE positions in year two (coordinator, clerical, and specialist roles)

Requires the unit to coordinate with nonprofit organizations, other state agencies, and county immigrant services offices, and to establish an advisory committee with immigrant community representatives