HEALTH MEASURES UP FOR FINAL PASSAGE

News Release from Hawaii House Democratic Caucus, April 30, 2025

Honolulu, Hawaiʻi – A series of health-related measures is up for final reading today on the House floor. If passed, the bills will be sent to the Governor for his signature and enactment into law.

“During the final weeks of conference, we worked hard to ensure these bills are thoughtful, effective, and responsive to Hawaiʻi’s people” said House Committee on Health Chair Gregg Takayama (D-34, Pearl City, Waiau, Pacific Palisades). “These bills address urgent health needs in our community — from mental health to medical cannabis access, and care for those with disabilities.”

The House floor session will begin at 9:00 a.m. in the House Chamber at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol. Watch the live stream here.

SB850 SD2 HD1 CD1 – Health Disparities

Provides $550,000 in each of the next two years for the first study of the special health needs and challenges among individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

SB1431 SD1 HD2 CD1 – Viral Hepatitis Funding

Establishes a hepatitis prevention and public information program with $545,000 and three new positions to combat Hawaiʻi's high mortality rate from hepatitis B and C.

SB1322 SD2 HD2 CD1 – Emergency Transportation

Clarifies procedures for emergency transportation and hospitalization for individuals who may be severely mentally ill or experiencing substance use disorders.

SB1429 SD2 HD3 CD1 – Medical Cannabis

Expands the number of patients a caregiver can assist from one to five and gives the Department of Health authority to impose penalties for violations of cannabis laws.

SB479 SD1 HD1 CD1 – ABLE Savings

Promotes use of tax-free ABLE accounts for individuals with developmental disabilities by allowing small incentives and funding a position at the State Council on Developmental Disabilities to support the program.

HB250 HD2 SD2 CD1 – Prior Authorization

Responds to concerns about delays in care caused by prior authorization by requiring reporting of usage data and creating a Working Group to recommend improvements.

SB1434 SD1 HD1 CD1 – Immunization Funding

Establishes the Universal Immunization Funding Program and provides $934,000 to streamline vaccine procurement and distribution for children and adults.

HB700 HD1 SD2 CD1 – Cognitive Assessments

Requires standardized cognitive assessments for Medicare beneficiaries to aid in early detection of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

HB1482 HD1 SD3 CD1 – Hemp Distribution

Requires hemp product distributors and retailers to register with the Department of Health beginning in 2026 and creates penalties for unlawful distribution or retailing.

HB302 HD2 SD2 CD1 – Medical Cannabis Dispensaries

Improves access to medical cannabis by allowing physician/APRN certifications via telehealth and based on professional judgment. Provides $750,000 for enforcement through the Attorney General.

HB1462 HD1 SD1 CD1 – Crisis Intervention Center

Authorizes planning for a second Oʻahu Crisis Intervention and Diversion Center based on areas with high mental health and substance use needs.

HB474 HD2 SD1 CD1 – Falls Prevention

Provides $100,000 annually for a public awareness campaign to reduce falls—the leading cause of death among seniors and a major driver of emergency room visits.

HB237 HD1 SD1 CD1 – Early Childhood Safety

Allocates $860,000 to establish peer support programs for parents and caregivers of children from birth to age five through the Family Health Services Division.