Hawaii launches return-to-home program for homeless individuals with state support

A new legislative proposal, House Bill 212 (HB212), introduced by the Hawaii House of Representatives on February 12, 2025, aims to address homelessness in the state through a "return-to-home" program. This initiative seeks to provide a voluntary pathway for homeless individuals to return to their home states, with the support of local organizations and families.

The bill outlines several key provisions for eligibility, ensuring that participation is entirely voluntary and contingent upon certain conditions. Individuals must be indigent, lacking the financial means to secure transportation, and must have the approval of their family or support group, who are expected to contribute half of the transportation costs. If the family cannot afford this, the program will cover the full cost after verification. Participants can only utilize the program once and must sign an agreement to this effect.

The program is designed to collaborate with various stakeholders, including airlines, cruise lines, and travel agencies, to facilitate travel arrangements and ensure participants are adequately prepared for their journey. Additionally, the statewide office on homelessness and housing solutions will be responsible for overseeing the program and reporting its findings to the legislature.

While the bill has garnered support for its potential to provide relief to those experiencing homelessness, it has also sparked debates regarding its effectiveness and the adequacy of resources allocated. Critics argue that simply returning individuals to their home states does not address the root causes of homelessness and may lead to further challenges for those affected.

The financial implications of HB212 include an appropriation from the state’s general revenues for the fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, which will cover operational costs and the salary of a full-time program supervisor. The bill's passage could signify a shift in Hawaii's approach to homelessness, focusing on providing individuals with a means to reconnect with their support systems.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its outcomes could have significant social implications, potentially reshaping how the state addresses homelessness and the support systems available to vulnerable populations. The community will be watching closely to see how this initiative unfolds and whether it can effectively contribute to long-term solutions for homelessness in Hawaii.