Bill > HB2169

This bill authorizes clinical psychologists in Hawaii to obtain prescriptive authority, allowing them to prescribe certain psychotropic medications, which are drugs used to treat mental and emotional disorders, with some exceptions like Schedule I, II, and III controlled substances, though stimulants for ADHD and buprenorphine for opioid use disorder are permitted. To gain this privilege, psychologists must meet specific requirements, including extensive clinical experience, passing a national proficiency exam in psychopharmacology, holding a current psychology license, and maintaining malpractice insurance. The Board of Psychology will oversee the application process, which begins on July 1, 2027, and will establish rules for granting, renewing, and potentially revoking this authority, including requiring collaboration with a patient's primary care provider, except in specific cases involving individuals under departmental health jurisdiction. The bill also amends existing laws to define "prescribing psychologist" and "psychotropic medication" within the context of controlled substances and clarifies that these psychologists, when prescribing, must follow specific procedures, including noting the primary care provider's Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration number on prescriptions. Furthermore, it appropriates funds for the Board of Psychology to implement these changes and requires the board to report to the Legislature on its progress.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=2169&year=2026