Bill > SB475

This bill establishes a state-funded colorectal cancer screening assistance program through the Department of Human Services to help individuals who lack comprehensive health coverage. Specifically, the program will provide financial assistance for colorectal cancer screenings to four groups of people: those who are uninsured, those with health insurance that doesn't fully cover screenings, permanent U.S. resident aliens ineligible for Medicare, and non-resident aliens ineligible for Medicare. The bill requires these screenings to align with recommendations from the United States Preventive Services Task Force and be consistent with Affordable Care Act guidelines. Additionally, the bill amends existing health insurance statutes to ensure that all health insurance providers in Hawaii offer coverage for colorectal cancer screenings without cost-sharing and inform their insured about the risks of undiagnosed colorectal cancer. The legislation appropriates funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support the development and implementation of this public assistance program, with the Department of Human Services tasked with creating rules to establish an application process that ensures no cost-sharing is imposed on participants.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=475&year=2025