Hawaii House Bill HCR143

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Report Pass: 4/4/24
• Refer: 4/5/24
• Engrossed: 4/4/24
• Report Pass: 4/18/24
• Passed: 4/19/24

Caption

Urging The Department Of Human Services, Department Of Health, And Judiciary To Prioritize Ensuring That Contracts For Government Services Are Adequately Resourced To Cover The Costs Of Providing Those Services.

Impact

The resolution acknowledges a survey indicating that a significant 91% of community-based nonprofit organizations reported that their contracts with government agencies did not adequately cover their operating expenses. This situation potentially jeopardizes the ability of these organizations to continue providing essential services. By urging DHS, DOH, and the Judiciary to prioritize appropriate funding, HCR143 aims to rectify the disparity between funding levels and the actual costs incurred, thereby safeguarding the services crucial to the community's well-being.

Summary

HCR143 is a House Concurrent Resolution that urges the Department of Human Services (DHS), the Department of Health (DOH), and the Judiciary to ensure that government service contracts are adequately resourced. This resolution stems from concerns that many community-based organizations in Hawaii, which provide critical services to vulnerable communities, are being funded below the costs required to deliver those services effectively. It highlights the struggles of these organizations, which support victims of domestic violence, provide housing for at-risk youth, and offer food assistance to low-income households and the elderly.

Contention

While the resolution seeks to address a pressing issue, it may spark conversations about budget allocation and management within state agencies. Stakeholders may debate how additional resources can be allocated without straining fiscal budgets or affecting other areas of public service. The resolution does not provide specific funding directives but highlights the urgency of reevaluating existing contract rates, which may lead to broader discussions about government accountability and resource distribution to community organizations.