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THE SENATE |
S.B. NO. |
2259 |
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THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
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STATE OF HAWAII |
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A BILL FOR AN ACT
relating to the department of business, economic development, and tourism.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
Creating a dementia-friendly business environment would greatly enhance the quality of life for those living with dementia and for their caregivers, while also demonstrating that this is not just a health issue, but also an economic and community development priority.
Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to establish a business recognition program within the department of business, economic development, and tourism to promote brain health awareness in the business community and provide knowledge on the harmful effects of not only Alzheimer's disease, but all forms of dementia, to better serve and support customers while creating a dementia-capable workforce.
SECTION 2. Chapter 201, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§201- Hawaii
dementia initiative business recognition program. (a) There is established within the department
the Hawaii dementia initiative business recognition program to promote among
the business community awareness of Alzheimer's disease and dementia and to promote
a dementia-capable workforce.
(b) The program shall be accessible through the
department's website, where businesses may apply to become recognized as
dementia-friendly.
(c) Businesses that apply shall receive a list of
approved organizations that provide dementia training for employees. All current employees shall complete a
one-hour training session to qualify the business as dementia-friendly.
(d) Upon completing the training under subsection
(c), a business shall receive:
(1) Access to a badge for the website of the business, indicating that the business is certified by the Hawaii dementia initiative as dementia-friendly; and
(2) A decal or sticker of the Hawaii dementia initiative certified business logo to place at the physical location of the business.
(e) The department shall publish a list of
recognized businesses on its website for access by individuals living with
dementia and their families.
(f) The department may also promote the program
and the list of Hawaii dementia initiative-certified businesses through various
media to further incentivize business participation."
SECTION 3. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 to establish and administer the Hawaii dementia initiative business recognition program.
The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of business, economic development, and tourism for the purposes of this Act.
SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2026.
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INTRODUCED BY: |
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Report Title:
DBEDT; Hawaii Dementia Initiative Business Recognition Program; Appropriation
Description:
Establishes the Hawaii Dementia Initiative Business Recognition Program within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. Appropriates moneys.
The summary description
of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is
not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.