Bill > HB247

This bill modifies the Hawaii ABLE Savings Program, which helps individuals with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for public benefits. The bill repeals the requirement that deposits must be made through a specific trust fund if the Director of Finance chooses to accept deposits directly from contributors. It authorizes the Director to use trust fund money to provide incentive payments to Hawaii public school ABLE account owners, which aims to encourage more families to participate in the program. The bill appropriates $50,000 for two fiscal years (2025-2026 and 2026-2027) to be deposited into the ABLE savings program trust fund and used for incentive payments. Additionally, it allocates $65,000 to fund a full-time position within the state council on developmental disabilities to provide statewide outreach, advocacy, and relationship management for the Hawaii ABLE Savings Program. These changes are designed to make the ABLE savings program more accessible and appealing to families of individuals with disabilities by offering financial incentives and improving program support and visibility.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=247&year=2026