Relating To Act 317, Session Laws Of Hawaii 2022.
The bill includes provisions for the Department of Human Services to contract qualified software providers to procure or develop this comprehensive system, which is expected to include multiple features. Some of these functionalities include online portals for resource caregivers to manage documentation related to children’s care, as well as access points for minors over twelve to obtain information regarding available support services. The intent is to ensure that all technological foundations comply with federal regulations, which may enable the department to secure federal matching funds for the project, thus promoting financial sustainability.
House Bill 1067 proposes amendments to Act 317 of the Session Laws of Hawaii 2022, specifically geared towards improving the state's child welfare information system. The legislation mandates the Child Welfare Services branch of the Department of Human Services to develop a comprehensive child welfare information system. This modern system is designed to provide critical functionalities for case management, thereby enhancing the ability of case workers to effectively track children in their care and manage case plans, family involvement, and administrative tasks related to children's welfare.
One significant point of discussion surrounding HB 1067 involves the appropriation of $80,000 from Hawaii's general revenues to support the development of this system. The bill outlines that funding shall not lapse at the end of the fiscal year, allowing for potential carryover of funds until June 30, 2024. This aspect of the bill may raise questions regarding the budget allocation to child welfare initiatives versus competing state expenditures. Moreover, stakeholders in the child welfare sector may have differing opinions on the choice of technological solutions and the efficiency of the proposed system's development.