Bill > SB2287

This bill appropriates $3,000,000 to the Department of Health for the fiscal year 2026-2027 to contract with community-based organizations, which are local groups that provide services to people in their area, to offer preventive and early intervention mental health services to adolescents, defined as individuals between the ages of ten and nineteen. These services aim to help young people develop healthy coping mechanisms, prevent substance abuse, and address mental health concerns early on, recognizing the rising rates of mental health challenges and substance use among Hawaii's youth, exacerbated by recent traumatic events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Maui wildfires. The Department of Health is also required to submit a report to the Legislature by early 2027 detailing how the funds were spent, which organizations received funding, the number of individuals served and the services provided, any measurable outcomes, and any proposed legislative changes. This Act will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2287&year=2026