Informing the Legislature that on May 13, 2024, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1974 HD1 SD1 (ACT 018).

This Hawaii bill increases the monthly personal needs allowance for residents of long-term care facilities from $50 to $75 to better cover daily living expenses. The law clarifies that this state payment is supplemental to federal benefits and does not change eligibility requirements for those funds. Additionally, the bill requires facility operators to provide generic toiletries, linens, and snacks for outings without using the residents' allowance money. These changes take effect on October 1, 2024, and apply to various types of adult care homes and nursing facilities across the state.