Bill > SB1442

This bill updates and clarifies the responsibilities of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Division (CAMHD) of the Hawaii Department of Health, focusing on improving mental health services for children and adolescents. The bill recognizes the critical importance of addressing mental health needs early in life, especially in light of adverse childhood experiences and the mental health challenges exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key provisions include establishing formal definitions for "client" and "division," updating the terminology from "youth" to "adolescents" throughout relevant statutes, and modifying the division's responsibilities to better reflect current mental health care systems. The bill requires the division to develop a comprehensive statewide mental health services plan every five years, which must include assessments of mental health needs, available resources, and gaps in services, as well as recommendations for improving mental health support. The legislation also emphasizes the division's role in providing community-based services, coordinating with other state agencies like the Department of Education, and ensuring mental health services are delivered as soon as possible to children and adolescents between birth and 17 years old. The overall goal is to create a more responsive and comprehensive approach to supporting the mental health of young people in Hawaii.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1442&year=2025