Gov. David Ige signed three bills into law today that support the state’s ongoing effort to build an increased amount of affordable homes and provide services to the homeless.
The three bills include:
- HB2512 Relating to ʻOhana Zones
- SB3048 Relating to State Funds
- HB2233 Relating to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
HB2512 (Act 235) will extend the ʻOhana Zone pilot program through June 30, 2026 and provide $15 million to fund services for this fiscal year. It will also provide for some exemptions of regulations that will allow the continuation of innovative projects that began under the COVID-19 emergency proclamations. Finally, Act 235 will allow people who receive accommodations or services at the ʻOhana Zone site, to request a 90-day extension of those services.
Gov. Ige also signed SB3048 (Act 236), which will allow the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) to transfer GO Bond proceeds from the Rental Housing Revolving Fund into the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund. This will enable the HHFDC to develop infrastructure improvement projects as it works to expand the state’s housing inventory.
Act 236 also deposits $300 million into the Rental Housing Revolving Fund, half of which is set aside for the development of rental housing for working families and individuals who earn a moderate income. This could potentially finance up to 1700 units.
HB2233 (Act 237), gives the Department of Human Services the authority to provide a housing assistance subsidy of up to $500 per month to participants in the first-to-work program.
(Photo credit: Office of Governor Ige)
