Bill > HB1589

This bill establishes the Hawaii Dementia Initiative Business Recognition Program within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to promote brain health awareness and create a dementia-capable workforce, recognizing that dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, impacts not only individuals but also businesses and the state's economy. DBEDT will collaborate with the Executive Office on Aging (EOA) to implement this program, which will be accessible online, allowing businesses to apply for recognition as "dementia-friendly" or "dementia business champions" by having 85% of their employees complete a one-hour dementia training session, with EOA potentially providing a list of approved training organizations. Recognized businesses will receive a digital badge for their website and a physical decal, and DBEDT will publish a list of these certified businesses online, while also developing guidance and protocols for staff to assist customers or coworkers with dementia. The bill also appropriates funds for the program's establishment and administration and sets an effective date of July 1, 3000.