Bill > HR169

This resolution urges the Hawaii Department of Health to launch a targeted vaccination education and outreach initiative for schools with vaccination rates below 30% during the 2025-2026 school year. The resolution is motivated by concerning data showing that 17.09% of students lack complete immunization records, which is more than three times the number of students with religious exemptions. The Department of Health is specifically asked to collaborate with community health centers and local healthcare providers to develop and implement this program, with the goals of increasing vaccination rates, countering vaccine hesitancy, and improving public health. Additionally, the resolution requests that the Department of Health partner with the Department of Education to create a long-term strategy for improving vaccination rates, and submit a comprehensive report to the Legislature before the 2026 Regular Session, including recommendations for funding and administrative changes necessary to support the program. The resolution draws inspiration from successful vaccination campaigns in other states like Seattle, Washington, and Michigan, which have demonstrated the effectiveness of targeted education and outreach efforts in increasing vaccination rates.

Education, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HR&billnumber=169&year=2025