Bill > HCR144

This concurrent resolution requests the Attorney General to investigate whether crisis pregnancy centers (CPCs) in Hawaii are complying with patient privacy regulations. The resolution provides context by highlighting Hawaii's history of protecting individual privacy rights and reproductive healthcare, and cites recent studies that raise concerns about CPCs. These studies, including one published in JAMA Internal Medicine, reveal that 91% of CPCs advertise medical services like pregnancy tests and ultrasounds, and 30% promote controversial "abortion pill reversal" treatments that lack FDA approval. The resolution notes that CPCs have received significant federal funding ($400 million between 2017-2023) with minimal regulatory oversight, and often invoke HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) to collect personal information. Supported by recommendations from the Electronic Frontiers Foundation, the resolution asks the Attorney General to investigate CPC privacy practices and submit a report with findings and potential legislative recommendations by late 2025. The ultimate goal is to ensure patient data protection and transparency in these healthcare-adjacent nonprofit organizations.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HCR&billnumber=144&year=2025