STAND. COM. REP. NO. 2723

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:    S.B. No. 2536

Honorable Shan S. Tsutsui

President of the Senate

Twenty-Sixth State Legislature

Regular Session of 2012

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Ways and Means, to which was referred S.B. No. 2536 entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO CLEAN AND SOBER HOMES AND HALFWAY HOUSES,"

begs leave to report as follows:

     The purpose and intent of this measure is to establish a task force on clean and sober homes and halfway houses.

     The task force is directed to, among other things:  develop a plan of accountability for clean and sober homes and halfway houses to ensure compliance with occupancy and other requirements; and balance community concerns with the needs of persons requiring clean and sober homes and halfway houses.

     Your Committee finds that clean and sober homes and halfway houses provide a means for persons to return to the community through support in a home-like environment, without the rigid structure of a therapeutic care facility or therapeutic living program.  Your Committee is aware of concerns expressed over the placement of these homes in residential communities and their compliance with existing laws and rules governing their operation.  Your Committee acknowledges that the needs and concerns of the communities must be tempered with the needs of the individuals requiring support and believes this measure provides a mechanism to explore these complex issues and reach a sound approach.

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Ways and Means that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 2536 and recommends that it pass Third Reading.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Ways and Means,

____________________________

DAVID Y. IGE, Chair