Bill > HB1112

This bill establishes a comprehensive Hepatitis Prevention Program within Hawaii's Department of Health to address the high mortality rates of hepatitis B and C, particularly among Asian and Pacific Islander residents. The program will focus on four key priorities: raising awareness and education about hepatitis, increasing access to healthcare services, ensuring health equity, and collecting and analyzing relevant data. The bill authorizes the department to develop a statewide prevention plan that includes screening and support services for individuals with hepatitis B and C, and allows collaboration with government agencies, healthcare providers, insurers, and community stakeholders. The legislation also updates existing statutes by removing an outdated reference to blood transfusions and hepatitis, and appropriates funding to hire three new full-time positions: a program specialist, an epidemiological specialist, and an office assistant to support the program's implementation. The bill aims to reduce preventable morbidity and mortality from viral hepatitis by leveraging the state's "Hep Free 2030: The Hawai'i Hepatitis Elimination Strategy 2020-2030" and addressing the disproportionate impact of these diseases on Hawaii's population.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1112&year=2026