Bill > SB2931

This bill establishes the Hawaii CARES Fund Long-Term Services and Supports Trust Program, a new statewide initiative designed to provide financial assistance for long-term care needs, which are often not covered by Medicare or most private health insurance. This program will be funded through a payroll-based premium assessed on wages, with the Department of Human Services (DHS) leading its implementation in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) and the Insurance Commissioner. Eligible beneficiaries, defined as residents who meet functional eligibility requirements for long-term services and supports (LTSs) such as assistance with daily living activities or supervision due to cognitive impairment, will receive a lifetime benefit in "benefit units" for approved services like adult day care, home-delivered meals, assisted living, and nursing facility care. The bill also creates a Long-Term Services and Supports Trust Commission for policy oversight and a Long-Term Services and Supports Trust Council to set premium rates and adjust benefit unit values based on actuarial analysis, aiming to ensure the program's financial solvency. It includes provisions for exemptions for certain individuals, such as those with existing long-term care insurance or specific veteran statuses, and allows for optional participation for self-employed individuals and certain out-of-state residents who elect to continue coverage. Furthermore, the bill establishes a framework for supplemental private coverage to complement the public benefit and mandates consumer education to inform residents about the program and their long-term care options. The Hawaii CARES Trust Fund will be established to hold all collected premiums and other revenue, with funds designated for benefit payments and administrative costs, and the bill appropriates funds for the initial establishment and implementation of the program.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2931&year=2026