Bill > SB787

This bill appropriates funds to the Department of Health to establish and operate a free statewide mental health warm line, which is a confidential phone service offering non-clinical mental health support for individuals experiencing psychological distress but not in immediate danger, distinguishing it from crisis lines that provide immediate assistance from licensed professionals or safety planning. The bill acknowledges the need for such a service, especially after the Maui wildfires, and aims to fill a gap in the existing mental health system by providing a resource for people who need someone to talk to but are not in an active crisis, with the funds intended for equipment, training, and operational expenses for the warm line, which is set to take effect on December 31, 2050.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=787&year=2026