STAND. COM. REP. NO.  327

Honolulu, Hawaii

                , 2009

RE:   H.B. No. 1498

Honorable Calvin K.Y. Say

Speaker, House of Representatives

Twenty-Fifth State Legislature

Regular Session of 2009

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Human Services, to which was referred H.B. No. 1498 entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR EMERGENCY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SHELTERS,"

begs leave to report as follows:

     The purpose of this measure is to assist victims of domestic violence.

     Specifically, the measure appropriates funds to support eight emergency domestic violence shelters statewide.

     Since 2004, the needs of domestic violence victims have increased dramatically.  Without this measure's funding, the shelters are not able to meet the growing needs of the community.

     Testimony in support of the bill was submitted by the Department of the Prosecuting Attorney of the City and County of Honolulu, Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Women Helping Women, Oahu VOICES, Child and Family Service, and Parents and Children Together.  The Department of Human Services submitted comments.

Your Committee finds that as the economy declines, the levels of abuse are getting worse and the demand for services is increasing.  Many shelters are experiencing a financial crisis and are in need of increased funding to avoid having to limit their services.  In addition, the cost of operating shelters and providing necessary services is increasing.

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Human Services that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 1498 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to the Committee on Finance.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Human Services,

____________________________

JOHN M. MIZUNO, Chair