Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR43

Introduced
3/10/26  

Caption

Urging The Department Of Education, Department Of Health, And Office Of Wellness And Resilience To Establish A Statewide Peer Counselor Program To Address Youth Loneliness And Social Disconnection In Hawaii's Schools.

Impact

If implemented, the peer counseling program mandated by SR43 would have a substantial impact on state educational and health systems. It is designed to create a supportive environment where high school students can connect and interact with their peers face-to-face. The program aims to prioritize trust-building and culturally-responsive approaches to enhance student well-being. By providing standardized training to peer counselors, the initiative seeks to cultivate a network of support within schools that aligns with trauma-informed principles and addresses the specific needs of diverse student populations.

Summary

Senate Resolution 43 (SR43) urges the Department of Education, the Department of Health, and the Office of Wellness and Resilience in Hawaii to establish a statewide peer counseling program aimed at addressing youth loneliness and social disconnection within schools. This bill recognizes the alarming rise of loneliness among Hawaii's youth, a situation exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to increased reliance on digital communication and less in-person interaction. The resolution highlights research indicating that loneliness is a significant risk factor for various mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, particularly among Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander youth.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, the resolution may face challenges, particularly regarding resource allocation and the demand for adequate training and support for peer counselors. Concerns may arise regarding the effectiveness of peer-led initiatives without sufficient adult involvement or oversight. Additionally, questions regarding the implementation logistics, such as how to ensure that all participating students receive equal access to training and support, might lead to discussions among educators and policymakers about best practices and accountability measures for the program's success.

Companion Bills

HI SCR44

Same As Urging The Department Of Education, Department Of Health, And Office Of Wellness And Resilience To Establish A Statewide Peer Counselor Program To Address Youth Loneliness And Social Disconnection In Hawaii's Schools.

HI HR94

Same As Urging The Department Of Education, In Collaboration With The Department Of Health And Office Of Wellness And Resilience, To Establish A Statewide Peer Counselor Program To Address Youth Loneliness And Social Disconnection In Hawaii's Schools.

Previously Filed As

HI SR114

Urging All State Departments To Partner With The Office Of Wellness And Resilience For Secure And Appropriate Data Sharing Agreements.

HI SCR135

Urging All State Departments To Partner With The Office Of Wellness And Resilience For Secure And Appropriate Data Sharing Agreements.

HI HCR16

Urging The Department Of Education And Honolulu Police Department To Establish Junior Police Officer Programs Through School-police Partnerships In Schools.

HI HR16

Urging The Department Of Education And Honolulu Police Department To Establish Junior Police Officer Programs Through School-police Partnerships In Schools.

HI SR56

Requesting The Office Of Wellness And Resilience To Develop A Report To Address The Developmental Needs Of Children Born During The Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic.

HI SCR73

Requesting The Office Of Wellness And Resilience To Develop A Report To Address The Developmental Needs Of Children Born During The Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic.

HI HB1081

Relating To The Office Of Wellness And Resilience.

HI SB1400

Relating To The Office Of Wellness And Resilience.

HI HCR139

Requesting The Office Of Wellness And Resilience To Develop A Report To Address The Developmental Needs Of Children Born During The Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic.

HI HR133

Requesting The Office Of Wellness And Resilience To Develop A Report To Address The Developmental Needs Of Children Born During The Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.