H.B. 648 Summary

• Establishes a state rent supplement program for kupuna (individuals age 62+) who are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness, to be administered by the Hawaii Public Housing Authority.

• Requires the authority to provide rent supplement assistance, housing counseling, landlord assistance, and coordinate with mental health and supportive services for qualified kupuna participants.

• Mandates qualified kupuna participate in the Continuum of Care Coordinated Entry System for homeless services to receive assistance.

• Appropriates unspecified funds (amount blank in bill) for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 to implement the program, including public housing specialist positions.

• Requires the Hawaii Public Housing Authority to submit annual reports to the legislature and repeals the program on June 30, 2026.