STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3571

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:    H.C.R. No. 82

Honorable Shan S. Tsutsui

President of the Senate

Twenty-Sixth State Legislature

Regular Session of 2012

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Human Services, to which was referred H.C.R. No. 82 entitled:

"HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION SUPPORTING EFFORTS BY NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS THAT ASSIST IN FINDING OPPORTUNITIES AND SOLUTIONS TO ADDRESS HOMELESSNESS IN HAWAII,"

begs leave to report as follows:

     The purpose and intent of this measure is to support efforts of non-governmental organizations that assist in finding opportunities and solutions to address homelessness in Hawaii.

     Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from Hawaii Youth Services Network; Waianae Care, Inc.; and two individuals.

     Your Committee finds that as Hawaii addresses the needs of homeless and at-risk individuals and families, it relies upon the assistance of non-governmental organizations in ensuring these individuals and families receive the help they need to become self-sufficient and contributing citizens.  This measure expresses the Legislature's support of the efforts of these non-governmental organizations as they find opportunities and solutions to address the growing problem of homelessness in the State.

     In addition, since issues associated with homelessness have the greatest impact on the counties, your Committee hopes that there is greater leadership at the county level as the counties have jurisdiction over zoning and a significant number of parks, beaches, roads, and other areas that are greatly affected by homelessness.  Your Committee also encourages counties to make additional resources available for supporting individuals and families who are homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless.

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Human Services that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of H.C.R. No. 82, and recommends its adoption.

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

____________________________

SUZANNE CHUN OAKLAND, Chair