Bill > SCR16

This concurrent resolution requests the Department of Health to establish a task force aimed at developing minimum professional standards for community health worker training programs. The resolution recognizes community health workers as trusted local community members who help bridge healthcare services and improve health outcomes, particularly for people with chronic diseases. The proposed task force would include representatives from various stakeholders, such as one community health worker from each county, representatives from state agencies like the Hawaii Public Housing Authority and Med-QUEST Division, educational institutions like the University of Hawaii - West Oahu, healthcare associations, and community organizations. The task force is requested to submit a comprehensive report to the Legislature with recommendations and potential legislation no later than twenty days before the 2026 Regular Session. The resolution emphasizes the importance of community health workers in addressing social determinants of health and improving health literacy, and seeks to create a standardized approach to training these essential healthcare professionals. The Department of Health would provide administrative support for the task force, and members would not be subject to certain conflict of interest statutes solely due to their participation.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SCR&billnumber=16&year=2025