The bill also emphasizes the importance of collaboration with local entities, encouraging the participation of airlines, cruise lines, charter companies, homeless programs, travel agencies, and the visitor industry in coordinating and implementing the program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, the Return-to-Home program will assist participants in preparing for travel, including obtaining identification, accessing airport transportation, understanding airport security procedures, and ensuring proper personal hygiene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To ensure transparency and accountability, the bill mandates the statewide office on homelessness and housing solutions to submit annual reports to the legislature, detailing the program’s findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The bill includes a provision to repeal Act 94, Session Laws of Hawaii 2023, which established the initial pilot program. It also proposes an appropriation from the state’s general revenues to fund the program for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027. The funds will cover operational costs, current expenses, and a full-time equivalent (FTE) position to assist and supervise the program. The exact amount of the appropriation is yet to be determined.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While the bill aims to provide a pathway home for eligible homeless individuals, some concerns have been raised about the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of solely focusing on relocation. Supporters, however, argue that the program offers a vital opportunity for individuals to reconnect with supportive networks and rebuild their lives in a more stable environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The bill has progressed through several stages in the legislative process:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
• On 1\/16\/2025, the bill was introduced and passed its first reading.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
• On 1\/21\/2025, it was referred to the committees on HSH and FIN.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
• On 2\/6\/2025, the committee on HSH recommended the bill be passed with amendments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
• On 2\/12\/2025, it passed the second reading as amended and was referred to the committee on FIN.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
• On 2\/24\/2025, the committee on FIN recommended passage with amendments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
• On 3\/6\/2025, the bill passed its first reading in the Senate and was referred to the committees on HHS and WAM.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
• A public hearing by the committees on HHS is scheduled for 03-12-2025 at 1:10 PM in Conference Room 225 and via videoconference.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

  The bill is currently under consideration by the legislature and is expected to face further debate and amendments before a final vote. The public is invited to submit testimony on the bill, offering their opinions and insights during the upcoming public hearing.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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