Bill > HB1123

This bill updates and clarifies the responsibilities of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Division (CAMHD) within Hawaii's Department of Health, reflecting the current mental health care system for children and adolescents. The legislation recognizes the critical importance of early mental health intervention, particularly in light of challenges exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted youth's social and emotional well-being. Key provisions include establishing official definitions for "client" and "division", updating language to consistently reference "children and adolescents", and modifying the statewide mental health services plan requirements. The bill mandates that the division develop a comprehensive five-year plan (instead of the previous four-year cycle) that includes assessing mental health needs, identifying resource gaps, describing prevention and treatment provisions, and making recommendations to the governor and legislature. The legislation also requires public hearings in each county when developing the plan, emphasizes coordination with other state agencies, and aims to provide community-based mental health services that minimize disruption to clients' daily lives. The overall goal is to ensure that eligible children and adolescents receive necessary mental health services as early and effectively as possible, supporting their proper development and long-term well-being.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1123&year=2026