Healthcare

in committee · Hawaii · House Mar 18, 2026

HR 160: URGING THE GOVERNOR TO REHARMONIZE THE FEDERAL AND STATE REGULATION OF CANNABIS IN HAWAII BY OBTAINING A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE EXCEPTION FOR REGISTERED MEDICAL CANNABIS PATIENTS AND REGISTRATION WAIVERS FOR STATE-LICENSED MEDICAL CANNABIS DISPENSARIES FROM THE DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION.

This bill urges the Governor of Hawaii to work with federal authorities to resolve conflicts between state and federal cannabis laws. It specifically asks for an exception to federal controlled substance rules for registered medical cannabis patients and a waiver for state-licensed dispensaries to operate without federal interference. The resolution cites problems like employment risks and insurance issues that patients face due to this legal conflict. It also requests quarterly progress reports from the Governor and sends copies to state and federal officials.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill seeks federal exceptions to protect medical cannabis patients from employment risks and insurance issues, improving patient access and rights.85% confidence

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in committee · Hawaii · House Apr 1, 2026

HR 105: REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO CONVENE A TASK FORCE TO INCREASE COMMUNITY CARE FOSTER FAMILY HOME ACCESSIBILITY FOR PRIVATE-PAY INDIVIDUALS.

This bill requests the Hawaii Department of Human Services to form a task force to study how to allow two unrelated private-pay individuals to live together in community care foster family homes. Currently, state law generally restricts these homes to one private-pay client at a time, or two only if they are married or in a civil union. The task force will examine ways to simplify application processes for couples and potentially expand housing options for unrelated individuals while considering impacts on Medicaid recipients. The group will include representatives from health services, care home organizations, and other relevant stakeholders, and must submit its findings and recommendations to the Legislature by early 2027.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill seeks to expand access to community care foster homes for private-pay individuals, improving housing options for those needing care services.75% confidence ✓ HousingSupports HousingBill seeks to expand housing options for unrelated individuals in foster family homes, potentially increasing accessibility and housing availability for private-pay clients.75% confidence

Sub-Topics Medicaid

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in committee · Hawaii · House Mar 18, 2026

HCR 29: ESTABLISHING THE HAWAII HEALTH PLAN WORKING GROUP TO DESIGN AND RECOMMEND A BASIC, AFFORDABLE HAWAII HEALTH PLAN AVAILABLE TO EVERY RESIDENT OF THE STATE.

This bill establishes a Hawaii Health Plan Working Group to design and recommend a basic, affordable health plan for all state residents. The working group will include representatives from the Legislature, Governor's office, Insurance Commissioner, state health agency, Hawaii Medical Service Association, and Kaiser Permanente. The group is tasked with developing a plan that addresses potential increases in uninsured residents due to federal changes to health insurance subsidies and Medicaid requirements, with recommendations to be submitted to the Legislature by early 2027.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill establishes working group to design affordable health plan for all residents, expanding coverage and protecting access to healthcare services.95% confidence

Sub-Topics Insurance Medicaid

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passed · Hawaii · Senate Apr 22, 2026

SCR 109: URGING THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER TO STUDY THE POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF EXPANDING THE USE OF MAIL-ORDER PHARMACY IN THE STATE.

This Senate Concurrent Resolution urges the Hawaii Insurance Commissioner to conduct a study on the potential benefits of expanding mail-order pharmacy services in the state. The bill directly affects state officials and healthcare stakeholders by requesting an examination of how mail-order pharmacies could improve medication access, reduce costs, and support patients in rural areas or with mobility challenges. The study must analyze specific areas including patient adherence, cost savings, access for vulnerable populations, safety of shipping systems, emergency preparedness, and patient choice options. The Insurance Commissioner is required to submit findings and recommendations to the Legislature by twenty days before the start of the 2027 Regular Session.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill urges study on expanding mail-order pharmacy to improve medication access, reduce costs, and support patients in rural areas or with mobility challenges.85% confidence

Sub-Topics Prescription Drugs

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passed · Hawaii · House Apr 1, 2026

HR 191: RECOGNIZING THE PUBLIC HEALTH IMPACTS OF AIR POLLUTION FROM INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE VEHICLES AND THE RISKS THAT TRAFFIC-RELATED AIR POLLUTION POSES TO COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE STATE AND AFFIRMING THE COMMITMENT TO TRANSITION TO CLEANER TRANSPORTATION CHOICES.

This House Resolution acknowledges the public health risks posed by air pollution from internal combustion engine vehicles, particularly in communities near busy roadways and among vulnerable populations like children and older adults. It highlights how traffic-related pollutants can affect both outdoor and indoor air quality, potentially contributing to respiratory issues, cardiovascular disease, and other health problems. The resolution affirms the state's commitment to transitioning toward cleaner transportation options and directs copies of the document to key state officials to inform future policy decisions.

Topics ✓ EnergySupports EnergyBill promotes transition to cleaner transportation and addresses air pollution from internal combustion engines, supporting renewable energy and clean energy infrastructure goals.85% confidence ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill acknowledges air pollution risks and affirms commitment to transitioning to cleaner transportation, indicating support for environmental protection.95% confidence ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill acknowledges public health risks from air pollution and affirms commitment to cleaner transportation, indirectly supporting public health initiatives.75% confidence ✓ TransportationSupports TransportationBill affirms commitment to transitioning toward cleaner transportation choices and addresses air pollution from vehicles, promoting sustainable transportation options.90% confidence

Sub-Topics Electric Vehicles Air Quality Recycling Public Health Electric Vehicles

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in committee · Hawaii · Senate Mar 19, 2026

SR 100: RECOGNIZING THE PUBLIC HEALTH IMPACTS OF AIR POLLUTION FROM INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE VEHICLES AND THE RISKS THAT TRAFFIC-RELATED AIR POLLUTION POSES TO COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE STATE AND AFFIRMING THE COMMITMENT TO TRANSITION TO CLEANER TRANSPORTATION CHOICES.

This Senate Resolution recognizes the public health risks posed by air pollution from internal combustion engine vehicles and highlights how traffic-related pollution disproportionately affects communities near major roadways, including children, older adults, and lower-income populations. The document affirms the state's commitment to transitioning toward cleaner transportation choices to improve air quality and protect public health. It does not create new laws or regulations but serves as a formal acknowledgment of these health concerns and environmental justice issues to inform future policy decisions. Copies of the resolution are sent to state officials responsible for transportation and energy policy.

Topics ✓ EnergySupports EnergyBill promotes transition to cleaner transportation and reduces reliance on internal combustion engines, aligning with clean energy goals.85% confidence ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill affirms commitment to transitioning to cleaner transportation and reducing air pollution from internal combustion engines, directly supporting environmental protection.95% confidence ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill affirms commitment to transitioning to cleaner transportation to improve air quality and protect public health, directly supporting healthcare by reducing pollution-related health risks.85% confidence ✓ TransportationSupports TransportationBill promotes transition to cleaner transportation choices and addresses air pollution from vehicles, supporting sustainable transportation improvements.90% confidence

Sub-Topics Electric Vehicles Air Quality Environmental Justice Public Health Electric Vehicles

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in committee · Hawaii · House Jan 30, 2026

HB 2199: RELATING TO HEALTH.

HB 2199 is a health-related bill that aims to protect individuals' right to make their own decisions about their healthcare. The legislation would ensure that people have control over their medical choices without external interference. It directly affects patients and healthcare providers by establishing legal protections for personal autonomy in health matters. The bill would require healthcare systems to respect individual decisions regarding treatment and care options. This measure focuses on maintaining personal freedom in medical contexts without specifying particular procedures or restrictions.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill explicitly protects patient rights and autonomy in healthcare decisions, strengthening individual control over medical choices without external interference.90% confidence

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in committee · Hawaii · Senate Mar 19, 2026

SCR 65: REQUESTING THE GOVERNOR'S SENIOR ADVISOR FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND THE JUSTICE SYSTEM TO FORMULATE A PLAN TO INCREASE ACCESS TO THE HAWAII STATE HOSPITAL FOR CERTAIN MENTALLY ILL- CRIMINAL DEFENDANTS.

This Senate Concurrent Resolution asks the Governor's Senior Advisor for Mental Health and the Justice System to create a plan for increasing access to the Hawaii State Hospital for mentally ill criminal defendants and individuals recently released from the facility who are at risk of reoffending. The bill is non-binding and does not authorize funding or change laws; instead, it directs the Senior Advisor to coordinate with relevant state agencies to develop placement options for these individuals. The resolution requires a report with findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to be submitted to the Legislature by early 2027. This measure addresses concerns about the hospital reaching capacity and the lack of suitable placements for people under civil commitment or those transitioning out of the mental health system.

Topics ✓ Criminal JusticeSupports Criminal JusticeBill aims to improve access to mental health treatment for criminal defendants, reducing recidivism and supporting rehabilitation within the justice system.85% confidence ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill seeks to increase access to mental health services for criminal defendants and at-risk individuals, strengthening healthcare access and mental health support.85% confidence

Sub-Topics Hospitals Mental Health

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in committee · Hawaii · House Mar 18, 2026

HR 70: REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TO CONVENE A COMPLEX NEEDS PATIENT WORKING GROUP TO ADDRESS THE NEEDS, SERVICES, AND FUNDING FOR COMPLEX NEEDS PATIENTS WHO HAVE MULTIPLE SIGNIFICANT BUT NOT SEVERE DIAGNOSES OF CHRONIC CONDITIONS, INCLUDING SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS, MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS, OR CHRONIC PHYSICAL ILLNESS CONDITIONS.

This bill is a House Resolution that requests the Hawaii Department of Health to form a working group focused on improving care for patients with multiple chronic conditions, including substance use disorders, mental health disorders, and physical illnesses. The working group would examine how to better coordinate services, funding, and treatment approaches for these individuals who often struggle with fragmented care systems. Key considerations include developing integrated residential and outpatient programs, expanding medication-assisted treatment, improving care coordination, and addressing social needs like housing and employment. The Department of Health is asked to lead this effort by inviting relevant stakeholders and submitting a report with recommendations to the Legislature by early 2027.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill establishes working group to improve care coordination and funding for complex needs patients, directly advancing healthcare access and services.90% confidence

Sub-Topics Mental Health

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in committee · Hawaii · Senate Mar 19, 2026

SR 170: REQUESTING HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE STATE TO ADHERE TO AND BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR ISSUING TIMELY REIMBURSEMENTS OF HEALTH CARE CLAIMS PURSUANT TO THE STATE'S CLEAN CLAIMS STATUTE.

This Senate Resolution requests that health maintenance organizations in Hawaii comply with state laws requiring timely payment of health care claims. It asks these insurers to issue reimbursements within 30 days of receiving claims, or within 15 days for electronically submitted ones, as mandated by the Clean Claims Statute. The resolution highlights concerns that delayed payments can harm medical practices and patients, particularly in rural and underserved areas. It directs copies of the request to state officials including the Insurance Commissioner and Director of Commerce and Consumer Affairs for their attention.

Topics ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareBill enforces timely reimbursement of healthcare claims, protecting medical practices and patients, especially in underserved areas, by ensuring compliance with state law.95% confidence

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