Bill > SCR86

This Concurrent Resolution recognizes and supports the ongoing collaborative efforts by various state agencies and private organizations in Hawaii to implement "Hep Free 2030," a ten-year strategy aimed at eliminating viral hepatitis types A, B, and C by the year 2030. Viral hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by a virus, and types A, B, and C are common in the United States, with types B and C being linked to serious conditions like cirrhosis and liver cancer, which disproportionately affect Hawaii residents. The resolution acknowledges that certain communities, including indigenous, Asian American and Pacific Islander, incarcerated, veteran, homeless, pregnant, and LGBTQ+ individuals, are at higher risk. It highlights existing state initiatives like expanding healthcare coverage for hepatitis C medications, offering syringe service programs, and providing immunizations, alongside broader efforts by organizations to offer vaccines, testing, education, and care. The resolution further requests that the Senate and House of Representatives' health committees hold a joint informational briefing to review the progress of the Hep Free 2030 strategy and consider any necessary future legislative actions.