Bill > HB819

This bill requires the State Council on Developmental Disabilities to conduct a comprehensive study on health disparities affecting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD) in Hawaii, with the goal of generating critical data to inform future public health policy. The council will collect and analyze detailed information on population-level differences in health indicators, including access to healthcare, preventive services, health behaviors, health status, social determinants of health, and contributing factors like race, ethnicity, gender, and economic disadvantages. By the 2027 legislative session, the council must submit a detailed report that defines the I/DD population, examines health disparities, identifies preventable differences, and propose legislation to reduce these disparities. The bill appropriates funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support this research, recognizing that current data on I/DD populations is outdated and inadequate. The study aims to help the state develop more culturally appropriate healthcare, address access barriers, and ultimately improve health outcomes for individuals with I/DD by providing a comprehensive understanding of their unique healthcare challenges and needs.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=819&year=2026