Hawaii House Bill HCR97

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/14/25
• Report Pass: 3/27/25
• Refer: 3/27/25

Caption

Urging The University Of Hawaii To Implement A Homeless Student Stability And Housing Resource Program To Address The Issue Of Housing Instability.

Impact

The proposal emphasizes the need for the University of Hawaii to develop a plan that addresses these insecurities by utilizing data from a current survey conducted by the University of Hawaii Basic Needs Committee. It advocates for increased awareness of available resources and improved access to support services for students. Furthermore, the bill highlights the concerning ratio of mental health practitioners to students at the Kauai campus, suggesting an urgent need to bolster mental health services to support student well-being.

Summary

HCR97 is a House Concurrent Resolution that urges the University of Hawaii to implement a comprehensive homeless student stability and housing resource program. This resolution arises from the recognition that post-secondary students often struggle to meet their basic needs, which include stable housing, food, and healthcare services. According to a poll conducted by The Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice, a significant percentage of students enrolled in the University of Hawaii system face some form of basic needs insecurity (BNI), with specific concerns regarding housing insecurity and homelessness.

Contention

The resolution aims at institutional reform within the University of Hawaii, directing the institution to take proactive steps in addressing the challenges faced by homeless students. Some notable points of contention could arise regarding the prioritization of funding and resource allocation. The resolution seeks to strengthen mental health provisions and resource availability, indicating that current efforts are insufficient to meet the needs of a growing number of students facing financial and mental health struggles. This could lead to debates on whether the university administration is adequately addressing these critical issues.