Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB3139

Introduced
1/28/26  
Refer
2/2/26  
Report Pass
2/17/26  
Refer
2/17/26  
Report Pass
3/5/26  
Engrossed
3/6/26  

Caption

Relating To The State Health Planning And Development Agency.

Impact

This legislation will alter existing statutes governing the State Health Planning and Development Agency, particularly around its roles in managing health care costs and establishing a more effective health services plan. By updating the exemption thresholds for certificate of need requirements, the bill also encourages increased health facility development. The proposal suggests a shift towards making health planning more collaborative, enhancing interactions between state agencies and private healthcare providers, which could facilitate better resource allocation and streamlined healthcare delivery systems.

Summary

SB3139, also known as the act relating to the State Health Planning and Development Agency, aims to amend several provisions related to health care in Hawaii. A significant aspect of the bill is the introduction of a new definition of 'health care' which expands its scope to include not only preventive and curative services but also caregiving across various settings such as behavioral and long-term care. The bill seeks to refine the functions of the State Health Planning and Development Agency to promote universal access to high-quality, equitable, and affordable health care in the state, focusing on addressing gaps in health service provision and optimizing costs.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB3139 appears to be positive among healthcare providers and advocates for increased access to care. It is seen as a progressive step towards improving the overall quality of health services in Hawaii, addressing critical access barriers within various demographics. However, there might also be concerns among those wary of changes to certificate of need rules, which could affect how and where certain healthcare facilities operate.

Contention

One notable point of contention within SB3139 involves the potential implications of abolishing parts of the traditional certificate of need framework. Advocates argue this will promote a more competitive healthcare market that can better meet community needs. Yet, critics are apprehensive that it could lead to a proliferation of services that might compromise the quality of health care by prioritizing quantity over equitable access and comprehensive care. The discussion surrounding SB3139 reflects broader tensions within the healthcare sector regarding regulation, efficiency, and community-specific service needs.

Companion Bills

HI HB2319

Same As Relating To The State Health Planning And Development Agency.

Previously Filed As

HI SCR69

Requesting The Administrator Of The State Health Planning And Development Agency To Convene A Pharmacy Benefit Manager Working Group To Determine The Best Policies To Lower Drug Costs For Patient Consumers And Increase Access To Health Care.

HI SCR10

Urging The Administrator Of The State Health Planning And Development Agency To Establish A Working Group On Health Insurance Reform To Provide Recommendations For Reducing The Impact Of Prior Authorization Requirements On The Timely Delivery Of Health Care In The State.

HI SR6

Urging The Administrator Of The State Health Planning And Development Agency To Establish A Working Group On Health Insurance Reform To Provide Recommendations For Reducing The Impact Of Prior Authorization Requirements On The Timely Delivery Of Health Care In The State.

HI SR53

Requesting The Administrator Of The State Health Planning And Development Agency To Convene A Pharmacy Benefit Manager Working Group To Determine The Best Policies To Reform Pharmacy Benefit Manager Practices In The State To Ensure Transparency And Fairness For Consumers And In The Pharmaceutical Sector, Lower Drug Costs For Patient Consumers, And Increase Access To Health Care.

HI SB1438

Relating To Home Care Agencies.

HI HCR26

Requesting The State Health Planning And Development Agency And Department Of Health To Hold A Public Meeting For All Certificate Of Need Applications For Any Proposed Special Treatment Facility In Neighborhoods With Community Associations.

HI SCR25

Requesting The State Health Planning And Development Agency And Department Of Health To Hold A Public Meeting For All Certificate Of Need Applications For Any Proposed Special Treatment Facility In Neighborhoods With Community Associations.

HI HR25

Requesting The State Health Planning And Development Agency And Department Of Health To Hold A Public Meeting For All Certificate Of Need Applications For Any Proposed Special Treatment Facility In Neighborhoods With Community Associations.

HI SR15

Requesting The State Health Planning And Development Agency And Department Of Health To Hold A Public Meeting For All Certificate Of Need Applications For Any Proposed Special Treatment Facility In Neighborhoods With Community Associations.

HI SB1423

Relating To Amending Section 323d-54, Hawaii Revised Statutes, To Exempt The Department Of Health From Certificate Of Need Requirements.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.