HB 1974: State Health Planning and Development Agency; State Plan on Hearing Loss; Appropriation
- Session Year: 2025-2026
- House: House
- Latest Version Date: 2026-05-01
Current Status:
Passed
(2026-07-10: Act 223, on 07/09/2026 (Gov. Msg. No. 1325).)
Introduced
In Committee
First Chamber
In Committee
Second Chamber
Final Decking
Enacted
What does this bill do?
This bill requires the State Health Planning and Development Agency to create and publish a statewide plan on hearing loss to improve early detection, access to care, and affordability of hearing devices and communication supports for Hawaii residents with hearing loss. The plan must assess existing programs and data, identify gaps, consult community groups, providers, and people with hearing loss, recommend policy changes and pilot projects, and the bill provides a $100,000 appropriation to fund the work.
The summary is provided by generative AI which can make mistakes. For original language, please view the details in the table below.
Requires and appropriates funds for the State Health Planning and Development Agency to develop and publish a state plan on hearing loss. (CD1)
Requires and appropriates funds for the State Health Planning and Development Agency to develop and publish a state plan on hearing loss. Effective 1/1/2050. (SD1)
Requires and appropriates funds for the State Health Planning and Development Agency to develop and publish a state plan on hearing loss. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
Requires and appropriates funds for the State Health Planning and Development Agency to develop and publish a state plan on hearing loss.
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HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.B. NO. |
1974 |
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THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
H.D. 1 |
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STATE OF HAWAII |
S.D. 1 |
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C.D. 1 |
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A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO HEALTH.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that hearing loss is a significant public health concern that affects individuals of all ages, from keiki to kupuna. National and state-level data indicate that tens of thousands of Hawaii residents experience some degree of hearing loss, including many who report serious hearing difficulty or deafness. Hearing loss becomes increasingly common with age, affecting roughly one-third of adults in their sixties, a majority of adults in their seventies, and most adults in their eighties.
The legislature further finds that despite the prevalence of hearing loss, it remains widely underdiagnosed and undertreated. Although newborn hearing screenings are in place, Hawaii lacks a coordinated statewide approach to screening and follow-up for school-age children and adults. Primary care providers often receive limited training and reimbursement incentives to screen for hearing loss, hearing aids and assistive devices remain prohibitively expensive for many residents, and pathways to diagnosis and treatment are frequently fragmented and difficult to navigate. Untreated hearing loss increases risk of cognitive decline and dementia, falls, social isolation and mental health issues, reduced workforce participation, caregiver burden, and costly institutional care. There is critical need for a coordinated statewide strategy to address these medical, social, educational, and economic impacts.
The purpose of this Act is to require the state health planning and development agency to develop a comprehensive state plan on hearing loss focused on improving access, affordability, awareness, and early detection of hearing loss in collaboration with community stakeholders, relevant advisory boards, and state agencies.
SECTION 2. Chapter 323D, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part I to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§323D- State plan on hearing loss. (a) The state agency shall develop and publish a state plan on hearing loss. The state plan on hearing loss shall include but not be limited to:
(1) An assessment of current policies, efforts, and initiatives addressing hearing loss in the State;
(2) Epidemiological data on hearing loss in the State, including prevalence by age group, geographic area, and socioeconomic status;
(3) An analysis of public awareness and social perception of hearing loss;
(4) The identification of gaps in screening and early detection for school-age children, adults, and the elderly;
(5) Information on access to care and treatment, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, and audiological services;
(6) Information on workforce development and training for primary care providers, educators, and hearing health professionals;
(7) The identification of associated health concerns, including cognitive decline, dementia, mental health impacts, fall risk, and communication barriers;
(8) Recommendations for improving access to services, the affordability of assistive technologies, and the availability of communication supports, including state policy suggestions; and
(9) Recommendations for pilot or demonstration projects to expand hearing screening, tele-audiology access, and community-based outreach.
(b) In developing the state plan on hearing loss, the state agency may consult with pertinent stakeholders, including:
(1) Community-based organizations serving individuals with hearing loss;
(2) Health care providers, audiologists, and speech-language pathologists; and
(3) Individuals experiencing hearing loss.
(c) The state agency shall publish and submit an initial state plan on hearing loss to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2027.
(d) No later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2029 and each odd-numbered regular session thereafter, the state agency shall submit an update report on the state plan on hearing loss covering the most recently completed fiscal biennium. The update report shall include information on progress made toward the goals of the state plan on hearing loss. In addition, each update report shall include:
(1) An implementation work plan specifying the tasks, timelines, and milestones for each goal;
(2) Efforts taken by the State to achieve the goals and strategies identified in the most recent state plan on hearing loss;
(3) Recommendations for state policy, program development, or legislation relating to hearing loss and communication access; and
(4) A review of services and initiatives coordinated among public and private agencies to meet the needs of individuals with hearing loss and their families."
SECTION 3. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $100,000 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the state health planning and development agency to develop and publish the state plan on hearing loss, including:
(1) Coordinating the development of the state plan on hearing loss through project management and interagency collaboration;
(2) Engaging stakeholders statewide, including kupuna, health care providers, educators, and community-based organizations, to identify needs, gaps, and opportunities;
(3) Consulting with experts and technical advisors in hearing health, aging, and disability services to inform plan recommendations; and
(4) Drafting, reviewing, and publishing the state plan on hearing loss for submission to the legislature.
The sum appropriated shall be expended by the state health planning and development agency for the purposes of this Act.
SECTION 4. New statutory material is underscored.
SECTION 5. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2026.
Report Title:
State Health Planning and Development Agency; State Plan on Hearing Loss; Appropriation
Description:
Requires and appropriates funds for the State Health Planning and Development Agency to develop and publish a state plan on hearing loss. (CD1)
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.B. NO. |
1974 |
|
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
H.D. 1 |
|
|
STATE OF HAWAII |
S.D. 1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
||
A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO HEALTH.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that hearing loss is a significant public health concern that affects individuals from keiki to kupuna. National and state-level data indicate that tens of thousands of Hawaii residents experience some degree of hearing loss, including many who report serious hearing difficulty or deafness. Hearing loss becomes increasingly common with age, affecting roughly one-third of adults in their sixties, a majority of adults in their seventies, and most adults in their eighties.
The legislature further finds that despite the prevalence of hearing loss, it remains widely underdiagnosed and undertreated. Although newborn hearing screenings are in place, Hawaii lacks a coordinated statewide approach to screening and follow-up for school-age children and adults. Primary care providers often receive limited training and reimbursement incentives to screen for hearing loss, hearing aids and assistive devices remain prohibitively expensive for many residents, and pathways to diagnosis and treatment are frequently fragmented and difficult to navigate. Untreated hearing loss increases risk of cognitive decline and dementia, falls, social isolation and mental health issues, reduced workforce participation, caregiver burden, and costly institutional care. There is critical need for a coordinated statewide strategy to address these medical, social, educational, and economic impacts.
The purpose of this Act is to require the state health planning and development agency to develop a comprehensive state plan on hearing loss focused on improving access, affordability, awareness, and early detection of hearing loss in collaboration with community stakeholders, relevant advisory boards, and state agencies.
SECTION 2. Chapter 323D, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part I to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§323D- State plan on hearing loss. (a) The state agency shall develop and publish a state plan on hearing loss. The state plan on hearing loss shall include but not be limited to:
(1) An assessment of current policies, efforts, and initiatives addressing hearing loss in the State;
(2) Epidemiological data on hearing loss in the State, including prevalence by age group, geographic area, and socioeconomic status;
(3) An analysis of public awareness and social perception of hearing loss;
(4) Identification of gaps in screening and early detection for school-age children, adults, and the elderly;
(5) Information on access to care and treatment, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, and audiological services;
(6) Information on workforce development and training for primary care providers, educators, and hearing health professionals;
(7) Associated health concerns, including cognitive decline, dementia, mental health impacts, fall risk, and communication barriers;
(8) Recommendations for improving access to services, affordability of assistive technologies, and availability of communication supports, including state policy suggestions; and
(9) Identification of pilot or demonstration projects to expand hearing screening, tele-audiology access, and community-based outreach.
(b) In developing the state plan on hearing loss, the state agency may consult with pertinent stakeholders, including:
(1) Community-based organizations serving individuals with hearing loss;
(2) Health care providers, audiologists, and speech-language pathologists; and
(3) Individuals experiencing hearing loss.
(c) The state agency shall publish and submit an initial state plan on hearing loss to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2027 and an update report pursuant to subsection (d) to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2029 and each odd-numbered regular session thereafter.
(d) The state agency shall prepare an update report on the state plan on hearing loss covering the most recently completed fiscal biennium. The update report shall include information on progress made toward the goals of the state plan on hearing loss. In addition, each update report shall include:
(1) An implementation work plan specifying the tasks, timelines, and milestones for each goal;
(2) Efforts taken by the State to achieve the goals and strategies identified in the most recent state plan on hearing loss;
(3) Recommendations for state policy, program development, or legislation relating to hearing loss, and communication access; and
(4) A review of services and initiatives coordinated among public and private agencies to meet the needs of individuals with hearing loss and their families."
SECTION 3. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the state health planning and development agency to develop and publish the state plan on hearing loss, including:
(1) Coordinating the development of the state plan on hearing loss through project management and interagency collaboration;
(2) Engaging stakeholders statewide, including kupuna, health care providers, educators, and community-based organizations, to identify needs, gaps, and opportunities;
(3) Consulting with experts and technical advisors in hearing health, aging, and disability services to inform plan recommendations; and
(4) Drafting, reviewing, and publishing the state plan on hearing loss for submission to the legislature.
The sum appropriated shall be expended by the state health planning and development agency for the purposes of this Act.
SECTION 4. New statutory material is underscored.
SECTION 5. This Act shall take effect on January 1, 2050.
Report Title:
State Health Planning and Development Agency; State Plan on Hearing Loss; Appropriation
Description:
Requires and appropriates funds for the State Health Planning and Development Agency to develop and publish a state plan on hearing loss. Effective 1/1/2050. (SD1)
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.B. NO. |
1974 |
|
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
H.D. 1 |
|
|
STATE OF HAWAII |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
||
A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO HEALTH.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that hearing loss is a significant public health concern that affects individuals from keiki to kupuna. National and state-level data indicate that tens of thousands of Hawaii residents experience some degree of hearing loss, including many who report serious hearing difficulty or deafness. Hearing loss becomes increasingly common with age, affecting roughly one-third of adults in their sixties, a majority of adults in their seventies, and most adults in their eighties.
The legislature further finds that despite the prevalence of hearing loss, it remains widely underdiagnosed and undertreated. Although newborn hearing screenings are in place, Hawaii lacks a coordinated statewide approach to screening and follow-up for school-age children and adults. Primary care providers often receive limited training and reimbursement incentives to screen for hearing loss, hearing aids and assistive devices remain prohibitively expensive for many residents, and pathways to diagnosis and treatment are frequently fragmented and difficult to navigate. Untreated hearing loss increases risk of cognitive decline and dementia, falls, social isolation and mental health issues, reduced workforce participation, caregiver burden, and costly institutional care. There is critical need for a coordinated statewide strategy to address these medical, social, educational, and economic impacts.
The purpose of this Act is to require the state health planning and development agency to develop a comprehensive state plan on hearing loss focused on improving access, affordability, awareness, and early detection of hearing loss in collaboration with community stakeholders, relevant advisory boards, and state agencies.
SECTION 2. Chapter 323D, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part I to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§323D- State plan on hearing loss. (a) The state agency shall develop and publish a state plan on hearing loss. The state plan on hearing loss shall include but not be limited to:
(1) An assessment of current policies, efforts, and initiatives addressing hearing loss in the State;
(2) Epidemiological data on hearing loss in the State, including prevalence by age group, geographic area, and socioeconomic status;
(3) An analysis of public awareness and social perception of hearing loss;
(4) Identification of gaps in screening and early detection for school-age children, adults, and the elderly;
(5) Information on access to care and treatment, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, and audiological services;
(6) Information on workforce development and training for primary care providers, educators, and hearing health professionals;
(7) Associated health concerns, including cognitive decline, dementia, mental health impacts, fall risk, and communication barriers;
(8) Recommendations for improving access to services, affordability of assistive technologies, and availability of communication supports, including state policy suggestions; and
(9) Identification of pilot or demonstration projects to expand hearing screening, tele-audiology access, and community-based outreach.
(b) In developing the state plan on hearing loss, the state agency may consult with pertinent stakeholders, including:
(1) Community-based organizations serving individuals with hearing loss;
(2) Health care providers, audiologists, and speech-language pathologists; and
(3) Individuals experiencing hearing loss.
(c) The state agency shall publish and submit an initial state plan on hearing loss to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2027 and an update report pursuant to subsection (d) to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2029 and each odd-numbered regular session thereafter.
(d) The state agency shall prepare an update report on the state plan on hearing loss covering the most recently completed fiscal biennium. The update report shall include information on progress made toward the goals of the state plan on hearing loss. In addition, each update report shall include:
(1) An implementation work plan specifying the tasks, timelines, and milestones for each goal;
(2) Efforts taken by the State to achieve the goals and strategies identified in the most recent state plan on hearing loss;
(3) Recommendations for state policy, program development, or legislation relating to hearing loss, and communication access; and
(4) A review of services and initiatives coordinated among public and private agencies to meet the needs of individuals with hearing loss and their families."
SECTION 3. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the state health planning and development agency to develop and publish the state plan on hearing loss, including:
(1) Coordinating the development of the state plan on hearing loss through project management and interagency collaboration;
(2) Engaging stakeholders statewide, including kupuna, health care providers, educators, and community-based organizations, to identify needs, gaps, and opportunities;
(3) Consulting with experts and technical advisors in hearing health, aging, and disability services to inform plan recommendations; and
(4) Drafting, reviewing, and publishing the state plan on hearing loss for submission to the legislature.
The sum appropriated shall be expended by the state health planning and development agency for the purposes of this Act.
SECTION 4. New statutory material is underscored.
SECTION 5. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 3000.
Report Title:
State Health Planning and Development Agency; State Plan on Hearing Loss; Appropriation
Description:
Requires and appropriates funds for the State Health Planning and Development Agency to develop and publish a state plan on hearing loss. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.B. NO. |
1974 |
|
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
|
|
|
STATE OF HAWAII |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
||
A BILL FOR AN ACT
relating to health.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that hearing loss is a significant public health concern that affects individuals from keiki to kupuna. National and state-level data indicate that tens of thousands of Hawaii residents experience some degree of hearing loss, including many who report serious hearing difficulty or deafness. Hearing loss becomes increasingly common with age, affecting roughly one-third of adults in their sixties, a majority of adults in their seventies, and most adults in their eighties.
The legislature further finds that despite the prevalence of hearing loss, it remains widely underdiagnosed and undertreated. Although newborn hearing screenings are in place, Hawaii lacks a coordinated statewide approach to screening and follow-up for school-age children and adults. Primary care providers often receive limited training and reimbursement incentives to screen for hearing loss, hearing aids and assistive devices remain prohibitively expensive for many residents, and pathways to diagnosis and treatment are frequently fragmented and difficult to navigate. Untreated hearing loss increases risk of cognitive decline and dementia, falls, social isolation and mental health issues, reduced workforce participation, caregiver burden, and costly institutional care. There is critical need for a coordinated statewide strategy to address these medical, social, educational, and economic impacts.
The purpose of this Act is to require the state health planning and development agency to develop a comprehensive state plan on hearing loss focused on improving access, affordability, awareness, and early detection of hearing loss in collaboration with community stakeholders, relevant advisory boards, and state agencies.
SECTION 2. Chapter 323D, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part I to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§323D- State plan on hearing loss. (a) The state agency shall develop and publish a state plan on hearing loss. The state plan on hearing loss shall include but not be limited to:
(1) An assessment of current policies, efforts, and initiatives addressing hearing loss in the State;
(2) Epidemiological data on hearing loss in the State, including prevalence by age group, geographic area, and socioeconomic status;
(3) An analysis of public awareness and social perception of hearing loss;
(4) Identification of gaps in screening and early detection for school-age children, adults, and kupuna;
(5) Information on access to care and treatment, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, and audiological services;
(6) Information on workforce development and training for primary care providers, educators, and hearing health professionals;
(7) Associated health concerns, including cognitive decline, dementia, mental health impacts, fall risk, and communication barriers;
(8) Recommendations for improving access to services, affordability of assistive technologies, and availability of communication supports, including state policy suggestions; and
(9) Identification of pilot or demonstration projects to expand hearing screening, tele-audiology access, and community-based outreach.
(b) In developing the state plan on hearing loss, the state agency may consult with pertinent stakeholders, including:
(1) Community-based organizations serving individuals with hearing loss;
(2) Health care providers, audiologists, and speech-language pathologists; and
(3) Individuals experiencing hearing loss.
(c) The state agency shall publish and submit an initial state plan on hearing loss to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2027 and an update report pursuant to subsection (d) to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2029 and each odd-numbered regular session thereafter.
(d) The state agency shall prepare an update report on the state plan on hearing loss covering the most recently completed fiscal biennium. The update report shall include information on progress made toward the goals of the state plan on hearing loss. In addition, an update report shall include:
(1) An implementation work plan specifying the tasks, timelines, and milestones for each goal;
(2) Efforts taken by the State to achieve the goals and strategies identified in the most recent state plan on hearing loss;
(3) Recommendations for state policy, program development, or legislation relating to hearing loss, and communication access; and
(4) A review of services and initiatives coordinated among public and private agencies to meet the needs of individuals with hearing loss and their families."
SECTION 3. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $100,000 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the state health planning and development agency to develop and publish the state plan on hearing loss, including:
(1) Coordinating the development of the state plan on hearing loss through project management and interagency collaboration;
(2) Engaging stakeholders statewide, including kupuna, health care providers, educators, and community-based organizations, to identify needs, gaps, and opportunities;
(3) Consulting with experts and technical advisors in hearing health, aging, and disability services to inform plan recommendations; and
(4) Drafting, reviewing, and publishing the state plan on hearing loss for submission to the legislature.
The sum appropriated shall be expended by the state health planning and development agency for the purposes of this Act.
SECTION 4. New statutory material is underscored.
SECTION 5. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2026.
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INTRODUCED BY: |
_____________________________ |
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Report Title:
State Health Planning and Development Agency; State Plan on Hearing Loss; Appropriation
Description:
Requires and appropriates funds for the State Health Planning and Development Agency to develop and publish a state plan on hearing loss.
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
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Date
|
Status
|
|---|---|
| Jul 10, 2026 | Act 223, on 07/09/2026 (Gov. Msg. No. 1325). |
| Jul 10, 2026 | Act 223, 07/09/2026 (Gov. Msg. No. 1325). |
| May 8, 2026 | Received notice of passage on Final Reading in House (Hse. Com. No. 888). |
| May 7, 2026 | Transmitted to Governor. |
| May 6, 2026 | Received notice of Final Reading (Sen. Com. No. 816). |
| May 6, 2026 | Passed Final Reading as amended in CD 1 with none voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Pierick voting no (1) and none excused (0). |
| May 6, 2026 | Passed Final Reading, as amended (CD 1). Ayes, 25; Aye(s) with reservations: none . 0 No(es): none. 0 Excused: none. |
| May 1, 2026 | 48 Hrs. Notice (as amended CD 1) 05-06-26 |
| May 1, 2026 | Reported from Conference Committee as amended CD 1 (Conf. Com. Rep. No. 177-26). |
| May 1, 2026 | Forty-eight (48) hours notice Wednesday, 05-06-26. |
| May 1, 2026 | Reported from Conference Committee (Conf Com. Rep. No. 177-26) as amended in (CD 1). |
| May 1, 2026 | The Conference committee recommends that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes of the Senate Conference Managers were as follows: 2 Aye(s): Senator(s) McKelvey, Moriwaki; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 1 Excused: Senator(s) Fevella. |
| May 1, 2026 | The Conference Committee recommends that the measure be Passed, with Amendments. The votes were as follows: 4 Ayes: Representative(s) Takayama, Olds, Keohokapu-Lee Loy, Alcos; Ayes with reservations: none; 0 Noes: none; and 0 Excused: none. |
| Apr 30, 2026 | Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday 05-01-26 3:45PM in conference room 329. |
| Apr 28, 2026 | Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Thursday 04-30-26 4:00PM in conference room 329. |
| Apr 27, 2026 | Bill scheduled for Conference Committee Meeting on Tuesday, 04-28-26 3:45PM in conference room 329. |
| Apr 23, 2026 | Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 725). |
| Apr 22, 2026 | Senate Conferees Appointed: McKelvey Chair; Moriwaki Co-Chair; Fevella. |
| Apr 20, 2026 | Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 786). |
| Apr 20, 2026 | House Conferees Appointed: Takayama, Olds, Keohokapu-Lee Loy Co-Chairs; Alcos. |
| Apr 17, 2026 | Received notice of disagreement (Hse. Com. No. 780). |
| Apr 16, 2026 | House disagrees with Senate amendment (s). |
| Apr 14, 2026 | Returned from Senate (Sen. Com. No. 648) in amended form (SD 1). |
| Apr 14, 2026 | Report adopted; Passed Third Reading. Ayes, 25; Aye(s) with reservations: none . Noes, 0 (none). Excused, 0 (none). Transmitted to House. |
| Apr 10, 2026 | One Day Notice 04-14-26. |
| Apr 10, 2026 | Reported from WAM (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 3703) with recommendation of passage on Third Reading. |
| Apr 8, 2026 | The committee(s) on WAM recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes in WAM were as follows: 13 Aye(s): Senator(s) Dela Cruz, Moriwaki, DeCoite, Elefante, Hashimoto, Inouye, Kanuha, Kidani, Kim, Lee, C., Richards, Wakai, Fevella; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 0 Excused: none. |
| Apr 6, 2026 | The committee(s) on WAM will hold a public decision making on 04-08-26 10:02AM; Conference Room 211 & Videoconference. |
| Mar 25, 2026 | Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. |
| Mar 25, 2026 | Reported from HHS (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 3192) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM. |
| Mar 20, 2026 | The committee(s) on HHS recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes in HHS were as follows: 4 Aye(s): Senator(s) San Buenaventura, Kanuha, Keohokalole, Fevella; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 1 Excused: Senator(s) McKelvey. |
| Mar 17, 2026 | The committee(s) on HHS has scheduled a public hearing on 03-20-26 1:00PM; Conference Room 225 & Videoconference. |
| Mar 10, 2026 | Referred to HHS, WAM. |
| Mar 6, 2026 | Passed First Reading. |
| Mar 6, 2026 | Received from House (Hse. Com. No. 70). |
| Mar 5, 2026 | Passed Third Reading with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Perruso excused (1). Transmitted to Senate. |
| Mar 5, 2026 | Reported from FIN (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 841-26), recommending passage on Third Reading. |
| Feb 27, 2026 | The committee on FIN recommend that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes were as follows: 15 Ayes: Representative(s) Todd, Takenouchi, Hartsfield, Hussey, Keohokapu-Lee Loy, Kitagawa, Kusch, Miyake, Morikawa, Perruso, Templo, Yamashita, Alcos, Gedeon, Reyes Oda; Ayes with reservations: none; Noes: none; and 1 Excused: Representative(s) Lee, M.. |
| Feb 24, 2026 | Bill scheduled to be heard by FIN on Friday, 02-27-26 10:00AM in House conference room 308 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE. |
| Feb 18, 2026 | Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Pierick voting no (1) and none excused (0). |
| Feb 18, 2026 | Reported from HLT/HSH (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 341-26) as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to FIN. |
| Feb 6, 2026 | The committee on HSH recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 9 Ayes: Representative(s) Marten, Olds, Amato, Hartsfield, Keohokapu-Lee Loy, Takayama, Takenouchi, Alcos, Garcia; Ayes with reservations: none; Noes: none; and Excused: none. |
| Feb 6, 2026 | The committee on HLT recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 9 Ayes: Representative(s) Takayama, Keohokapu-Lee Loy, Amato, Hartsfield, Marten, Olds, Takenouchi, Alcos, Garcia; Ayes with reservations: none; Noes: none; and Excused: none. |
| Feb 3, 2026 | Bill scheduled to be heard by HLT/HSH on Friday, 02-06-26 9:00AM in House conference room 329 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE. |
| Jan 28, 2026 | Referred to HLT/HSH, FIN, referral sheet 3 |
| Jan 26, 2026 | Introduced and Pass First Reading. |
| Jan 23, 2026 | Pending introduction. |
|
Date
|
Description
|
Location
|
Votes
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 6, 2026 | Final Reading | House Floor |
Passed |
|
| May 6, 2026 | Final Reading | Senate Floor |
Passed |
|
| Apr 14, 2026 | Third Reading | Senate Floor |
Passed |
|
| Apr 8, 2026 | The committee(s) on WAM recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED | Senate Standing Committee on Ways and Means |
Passed |
|
| Mar 20, 2026 | The committee(s) on HHS recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS | Senate Standing Committee on Health and Human Services |
Passed |
|
| Mar 5, 2026 | Third Reading | House Floor |
Passed |
|
| Feb 27, 2026 | The committee on FIN recommend that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED | House Standing Committee on Finance |
Passed |
|
| Feb 6, 2026 | The committee on HSH recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS | House Standing Committee on Human Services & Homelessness |
Passed |
|
| Feb 6, 2026 | The committee on HLT recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS | House Standing Committee on Health |
Passed |
This list shows positions taken on this bill by organizations on the date displayed, which is linked to the original source.
Positions by individuals are not included.
|
Organization
|
Position
|
Date
|
|---|---|---|
| Aiea High School | *** Support | Feb 28, 2026 |
| Aloha Independent Living Hawaii (AILH) | *** Support | Apr 7, 2026 |
| Alzheimer's Association - Hawaii | *** Support | Apr 7, 2026 |
| Captel | *** Support | Feb 6, 2026 |
| Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi | *** Support | Mar 20, 2026 |
| Disability and Communication Access Board | *** Support | Apr 7, 2026 |
| Hawaii Ear Center | *** Support | Feb 28, 2026 |
| Hawaii Permanente Medical Group | *** Support | Feb 28, 2026 |
| Hawaii State Board of Speech Language Pathology and Audiology (Board Member) | *** Support | Feb 28, 2026 |
| Hear 4 Hope | *** Support | Apr 7, 2026 |
| Kapiolani | *** Support | Apr 7, 2026 |
| Kapiʻolani Medical Center for Women and Children | *** Support | Feb 28, 2026 |
| PABEA | ** Support | |
| Policy Advisory Board for Elderly Affairs (PABEA) | *** Support | Mar 20, 2026 |
| Queens University Medical Group | *** Support | Feb 28, 2026 |
| State Health Planning and Development Agency | ** Support | |
| Tripler Army Medical Center | *** Support | Feb 28, 2026 |
STAND. COM. REP. NO. 841-26
Honolulu, Hawaii
, 2026
RE: H.B. No. 1974
H.D. 1
Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura
Speaker, House of Representatives
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2026
State of Hawaii
Madame:
Your Committee on Finance, to which was referred H.B. No. 1974, H.D. 1, entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO HEALTH,"
begs leave to report as follows:
Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the State Health Planning and Development Agency; PABEA; Alzheimer's Association - Hawaiʻi; Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi; Hear 4 Hope; and numerous individuals. Your Committee received comments on this measure from the Executive Office on Aging and two individuals.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Finance that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 1974, H.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Third Reading.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Finance,
|
|
|
____________________________ CHRIS TODD, Chair |
|
|
|
|
STAND. COM. REP. NO. 341-26
Honolulu, Hawaii
, 2026
RE: H.B. No. 1974
H.D. 1
Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura
Speaker, House of Representatives
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2026
State of Hawaii
Madame:
Your Committees on Health and Human Services & Homelessness, to which was referred H.B. No. 1974 entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO HEALTH,"
beg leave to report as follows:
The purpose of this measure is to require and appropriate funds for the State Health Planning and Development Agency to develop and publish a state plan on hearing loss.
Your Committees received comments on this measure from the Executive Office on Aging.
Your Committees find that hearing loss is a widespread and growing public health concern affecting residents of all ages, and that untreated hearing loss contributes to significant medical, social, and economic impacts, including cognitive decline, falls, social isolation, and barriers to education and workforce participation. Your Committees further find that Hawaii lacks a coordinated statewide strategy for screening, early detection, and access to hearing health services for children, adults, and kupuna. This measure will support the development of a comprehensive statewide plan to improve early identification, care coordination, and access to hearing health services for Hawaii residents.
Your Committees have amended this measure by:
(1) Changing the appropriation to an unspecified amount;
(2) Changing the effective date to July 1, 3000, to encourage further discussion; and
(3) Making technical, nonsubstantive amendments for the purposes of clarity, consistency, and style.
Your Committees respectfully request your Committee on Finance, should it deliberate on this measure, to consider an appropriation amount of $100,000.
As affirmed by the records of votes of the members of your Committees on Health and Human Services & Homelessness that are attached to this report, your Committees are in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 1974, as amended herein, and recommend that it pass Second Reading in the form attached hereto as H.B. No. 1974, H.D. 1, and be referred to your Committee on Finance.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committees on Health and Human Services & Homelessness,
|
____________________________ LISA MARTEN, Chair |
|
____________________________ GREGG TAKAYAMA, Chair |
|
|
|
|
|
Date
|
Testimony PDF
|
|---|---|
| Apr 7, 2026 | HB1974_SD1_TESTIMONY_WAM_04-08-26_.PDF |
| Mar 20, 2026 | HB1974_HD1_TESTIMONY_HHS_03-20-26_.PDF |
| Feb 28, 2026 | HB1974_HD1_TESTIMONY_FIN_02-27-26_.PDF |
| Feb 6, 2026 | HB1974_TESTIMONY_HLT-HSH_02-06-26_.PDF |
Discussed in Hearing
1MIN
Conference Committee
49SEC
Conference Committee
7MIN
House Standing Committee on Finance
16SEC
House Standing Committee on Finance
5MIN
House Standing Committee on Health
5MIN
House Standing Committee on Human Services & Homelessness
2MIN
House Standing Committee on Health
2MIN
House Standing Committee on Human Services & Homelessness
Bill Author
Bill Co-Author(s):
