Bill > SB714

This bill seeks to expand Medicaid coverage in Hawaii for income-qualified pregnant persons and children who are currently ineligible for health insurance due to their immigration status. The legislation is motivated by findings that approximately 500 pregnant persons and 4,000 children are denied access to affordable health care, and that limited healthcare access increases risks such as premature birth and preventable hospitalizations. Drawing from the experiences of other states, where 22 states already provide Medicaid coverage to pregnant residents and 12 states cover immigrant children regardless of status, the bill appropriates funds for two key provisions: first, to provide Medicaid coverage through the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for income-qualified pregnant persons, with the Department of Human Services estimating an annual cost of $1,364,000; and second, to provide similar coverage for income-qualified children, with estimated costs ranging from $2,976,000 under a federal program to $9,600,000 for a state-funded program. The bill aims to lower healthcare barriers for immigrant populations, improve health outcomes, and ensure access to preventative and critical medical services. If passed, the provisions would take effect on July 1, 2025, with funds drawn from Hawaii's general revenues.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=714&year=2026