H.R. 123 Summary

• Hawaii has one of the most severe homelessness epidemics in the U.S., with 6,223 homeless statewide and 704 on Maui before the August 8, 2023 wildfires, and Hawaii has the highest percentage of people experiencing chronic homelessness nationally.

• Requests the Governor and State Coordinator on Homelessness and Housing Solutions to secure a viable location on Maui and construct at least 450 homes for displaced Lahaina wildfire victims.

• Requests the Governor secure at least two geographic locations on Maui to build Kauhale communities for both displaced wildfire victims and pre-existing homeless populations with mental health services, crisis stabilization, and wraparound social services.

• Calls for the State to house an estimated 800 homeless individuals on Maui and commits to addressing housing insecurity through construction of new housing units.

• Directs transmission of certified copies to the Governor, state homelessness coordinator, state agency directors, Maui County Mayor, and Maui County Council members.