Bill > HB1113

This bill addresses the future of the Kalaupapa Settlement, a historic location on Molokai that has been home to patients with Hansen's disease (leprosy). The bill establishes the Kalaupapa State Historical Area to preserve the settlement's historical, cultural, and environmental significance, and authorizes the Department of Health to continue providing services to Hansen's disease patients living in the community. The legislation prepares for changes in the Department of Health's responsibilities after the last patient resident passes away, with seven current patients all over 83 years old. The bill modifies existing statutes to remove specific provisions about patient employment, governance, and residency at Kalaupapa, and stipulates that upon the passing of the last patient resident, the County of Kalawao will cease to be a separate county and become part of Maui County. The bill also requires the Department of Health to continue submitting annual reports about the Kalaupapa Settlement until the last patient resident passes away or the settlement is no longer under the department's jurisdiction. The changes are designed to respect the dignity and historical importance of the patients while preparing for the eventual transition of the settlement's management and status.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1113&year=2026