[§352D-1]  Finding and purpose.  The
legislature finds that:



(1)  The State of Hawaii has the responsibility to
provide its youth a fair and full opportunity to reach their full potential and
become law-abiding citizens of our community by providing and encouraging
services, which will strengthen their physical, emotional, social, educational,
and moral development;



(2)  There is a need for a strong state commitment to
the needs of youth and families.  Of particular concern are those youth who
come into conflict with the laws of our community.  To achieve this commitment,
there is need for statewide planning and system coordination; oversight of
activities and services; and evaluation and monitoring of the effectiveness of
these services.  In addition, a single entity is needed to serve as a central
intake agency, and to coordinate the delivery of services, and provide a
continuum of programs to eliminate gaps and provide a clear sense of
responsibility and accountability for youth services.  This agency must have
sufficient statutory authority to ensure that its directives and mandates are
complied with by the various affected agencies.



The purpose of this chapter is to establish the
office of youth services for the planning, case management, and delivery of
services to youth at risk. [L 1989, c 375, pt of §1]