HI HB1801

Appropriates funds for the Department of Human Services to contract with domestic violence specialists to provide training and on-site staff at Child Welfare Services Branch offices for screening and addressing domestic violence in cases.

Implements three initiatives: specialized domestic violence training for all child welfare staff based on their roles (intake, assessment, case management, permanency), a tracking system integrated into a new computer system projected for late 2026, and on-site domestic violence specialists at branch offices.

Responds to recommendations from the Malama Ohana Working Group established by Act 86 (2023), which developed a vision for trauma-informed, community-based child welfare reform after 15 months of gathering input from youth, families, and service providers.

Addresses 181 confirmed cases of children experiencing domestic violence and 179 confirmed child victims reported by the Child Welfare Services Branch in 2025.

Takes effect July 1, 3000 (placeholder date); appropriation amount is left blank for fiscal year 2026-2027.