Hawaii Senate Bill SR161

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Identify Lands In West And South Maui That Are Appropriate For The Construction Of Kauhale Housing For Homeless Individuals.

Impact

If implemented, SR161 could pave the way for new housing developments specifically designed for homeless individuals in areas of Maui that have been identified as high-need. By facilitating the construction of kauhale housing, the resolution aims to provide sustainable and culturally resonant living solutions for the homeless population. The resolution also encourages consultation with local entities and community organizations, potentially strengthening local responses to the homelessness crisis and ensuring that the housing solutions are effectively aligned with community needs.

Summary

Senate Resolution 161 (SR161) was introduced in the Thirty-second Legislature of the State of Hawaii in 2023. The resolution requests the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development to identify lands suitable for the construction of kauhale housing for homeless individuals, specifically in West and South Maui. This initiative responds to the critical issue of homelessness in Hawaii, where a significant number of individuals remain without shelter, particularly noted in the January 2022 report that highlighted over 700 homeless individuals in Maui County alone. The resolution seeks to address this pressing concern through collaborative efforts that respect and incorporate traditional Hawaiian values of community and sustainability in the housing solutions proposed.

Contention

While the resolution itself is primarily a request rather than a binding piece of legislation, it highlights ongoing debates about homelessness in Hawaii. Supporters may view this initiative as a necessary step toward alleviating the homeless crisis, while opponents may argue about the challenges related to land availability and the effectiveness of implementing such housing solutions. Additionally, there may be scrutiny regarding the adequacy of the kauhale housing model in meeting the needs of diverse homeless populations, thus raising questions about potential barriers to the successful execution of the resolution's goals.