HI HB645

Appropriates funding to the Department of Human Services for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to provide emergency shelter and services to unaccompanied homeless youth throughout Hawaii (amount to be determined).

Requires emergency shelters and services to be provided on each of the islands of Hawaii, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and Oahu.

Addresses findings that one in ten young adults ages 18-25 and one in thirty adolescents ages 13-17 experience homelessness without a parent or guardian present.

Recognizes that homeless youth face multiple vulnerabilities including mental health disorders, food and shelter insecurity, educational disruption, disease exposure, sexual exploitation, and suicide risk.

Takes effect on July 1, 2025.