HI HB2115

Appropriates unspecified funds to the Department of Human Services for fiscal year 2026-2027 to issue supplemental contracts to community-based organizations covering increased costs for labor, insurance, utilities, rent, and gas.

Funds would be distributed across eight program areas: child protective services, adult protective and community care services, vocational rehabilitation, homeless services, child care support, self-sufficiency services, health care payments, and youth programs.

A 2022 survey found 91% of nonprofits with government human service contracts did not receive funding to cover full operating costs, with 79% cutting administrative costs to maintain services.

Since 2010, Hawaii's minimum wage nearly doubled, social worker salaries increased 45%, and liability insurance premiums more than doubled, while contract rates remained stagnant.

The Office of Youth Services previously cut provider contracts by 10% and only restored 5%, leaving some providers considering ending contracts that support youth housing and emergency services.