Bill > SB1398

This bill directs the Office of Wellness and Resilience (OWR) to collaborate with the Department of Human Services (DHS) to develop a comprehensive trauma-informed care program specifically for the Child Welfare Services Branch. The program will include several key components: an evidence-based assessment tool to evaluate the branch's existing policies and procedures for serving traumatized children and families, another assessment tool to measure staff well-being and address issues like vicarious trauma and burnout, a training curriculum to create a cohort of trained mentors, a branch-wide trauma-informed care curriculum with ongoing technical support, specialized supervisor training, and consultation from a child welfare services expert. The legislature recognizes that children and families referred to child welfare services experience significant trauma and that staff need comprehensive training and support to effectively serve these populations. The bill appropriates funding for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to implement these initiatives, with the goal of transforming the child welfare system's approach to supporting both clients and staff. The provisions will take effect on December 31, 2050, allowing ample time for planning and implementation.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1398&year=2026