Bill > SB880

This bill establishes a temporary Medi-Medi Project within the Hawaii State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) to help underserved populations access low-income subsidy programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, and Extra Help. The project aims to assist older adults, Medicare beneficiaries, and individuals with disabilities who may struggle to navigate complex benefits application processes, particularly those with limited English proficiency, low income, or living in rural areas. The project will develop a community outreach program, streamline application and eligibility renewal processes for various low-income subsidy programs, and provide additional supportive services to help people access benefits. The Executive Office on Aging will be responsible for implementing the project and will be required to submit reports to the Legislature before each regular session. The bill appropriates funding for a full-time equivalent position to manage the project and allocates additional funds for operating expenses. The Medi-Medi Project will be implemented starting July 1, 2025, and will help address challenges highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic and Maui wildfires, when many individuals experienced disruptions in their healthcare coverage and eligibility.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=880&year=2026