THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	2538
THIRTY-SECOND LEGISLATURE, 2024
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

relating to the DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that the island of Molokai has struggled to receive the same resources as the rest of the islands across the State. Currently, Molokai is serviced by only one airline, which regularly experiences cancellations and delays, resulting in many Molokai residents missing medical appointments on neighbor islands and further contributing to greater health disparities, particularly regarding mental health.

The legislature further finds that services provided by the department of health are underfunded and the department is understaffed. Recent events have further evidenced a disconnect between the department of health's state office and the local office on Molokai. In addition, the biggest concern to Molokai residents is inadequate mental health and suicide prevention services. The legislature finds that it is critical for the department of health to ensure services to the Molokai community by maintaining adequate staffing levels and fully funding programs and services under its jurisdiction.

Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to require the department of health to prioritize fully funding services, programs, and staff positions under its jurisdiction on the island of Molokai.

SECTION 2. (a) The department of health shall prioritize funding and filling vacant positions on the island of Molokai.

(b) The department of health shall fully fund programs and services under its jurisdiction for community health services including but not limited to:

(1) Public health services;

(2) Mental health services;

(3) Health inspectors; and

(4) Other services relevant to community health needs.

(c) The department of health shall maintain an updated list of services provided with current contact information for Molokai residents to easily access.

SECTION 3. The department of health shall submit a report of its efforts to prioritize fully funding services, programs, and staff positions on the island of Molokai, including any proposed legislation, to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2025.

SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

INTRODUCED BY:

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Report Title:

DOH; Molokai; Community Health Services; Mental Health Services; Health Infrastructure; Health Care; Program Funding; Report

Description:

Requires the Department of Health to prioritize funding for programs and services under its jurisdiction and fill vacant positions on the island of Molokai. Requires a report to the Legislature.

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.