Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR49

Introduced
3/10/26  
Refer
3/19/26  
Report Pass
4/8/26  

Caption

Establishing The Hawaii Health Plan Working Group To Design And Recommend A Basic, Affordable Hawaii Health Plan Available To Every Resident Of The State.

Impact

The establishment of this working group could have profound implications for state laws relating to healthcare. By working towards a comprehensive health plan, the resolution indicates a commitment to ensuring that residents are not burdened by rising healthcare costs, reminiscent of previous state initiatives like the State Health Insurance Program Act of 1989. If successful, the proposed health plan could offer structured support and financial assistance to help uninsured residents gain access to affordable health insurance, thus potentially enhancing the overall public health landscape in Hawaii.

Summary

Senate Resolution 49 (SR49) establishes the Hawaii Health Plan Working Group aimed at designing and recommending a basic, affordable health insurance plan for every resident of Hawaii. This initiative is primarily a response to changes in federal health insurance standards and the expiration of the enhanced Premium Tax Credit, which may leave a significant portion of the state's population without health coverage. The resolution underscores the urgency of addressing potential gaps in health insurance accessibility due to recent federal policies that could affect around 6-7% of Hawaii's residents.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR49 appears to be largely supportive, particularly among healthcare advocates and lawmakers concerned about rising insurance costs following federal changes. Many see the necessity of an affordable state-run health plan as a vital safeguard for residents. However, there may also be some apprehension regarding the feasibility of the working group's proposals and the complexities involved in implementing a new health insurance system. The collaboration of various stakeholders, including health officials and community representatives, is aimed at ensuring a comprehensive approach to health insurance coverage.

Contention

The notable points of contention surrounding the resolution include concerns about the sustainability and funding of the proposed Hawaii Health Plan. Critics may question whether the state can effectively support such an expansive healthcare initiative without imposing additional financial burdens on taxpayers. Additionally, the working group's mandate to consider existing health policy legislation raises questions about balancing various interests among stakeholders involved in Hawaii's healthcare system. The ultimate effectiveness of SR49 will depend on the working group's ability to navigate these complexities and develop feasible recommendations that address the diverse needs of Hawaii's residents.

Companion Bills

HI SCR50

Same As Establishing The Hawaii Health Plan Working Group To Design And Recommend A Basic, Affordable Hawaii Health Plan Available To Every Resident Of The State.

HI HR29

Same As Establishing The Hawaii Health Plan Working Group To Design And Recommend A Basic, Affordable Hawaii Health Plan Available To Every Resident Of The State.

Previously Filed As

HI SR130

Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Convene A Working Group To Examine And Consider The Transfer Of Native Hawaiian Burial Site Management Under Chapter 6e, Hawaii Revised Statutes, From The State Historic Preservation Division To The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs.

HI SCR161

Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Convene A Working Group To Examine And Consider The Transfer Of Native Hawaiian Burial Site Management Under Chapter 6e, Hawaii Revised Statutes, From The State Historic Preservation Division To The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs.

HI HCR193

Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Convene A Working Group To Examine And Consider The Transfer Of Native Hawaiian Burial Site Management Under Chapter 6e, Hawaii Revised Statutes, From The State Historic Preservation Division To The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs.

HI HR186

Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Convene A Working Group To Examine And Consider The Transfer Of Native Hawaiian Burial Site Management Under Chapter 6e, Hawaii Revised Statutes, From The State Historic Preservation Division To The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs.

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 SR115

Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Convene A Geothermal Energy Working Group To Evaluate The Regulatory And Policy Landscape Surrounding Geothermal Energy In Hawaii.

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 HCR124

Encouraging The Kawaihuelani Center For Hawaiian Language Of The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Further Provide Learning Resources And Opportunities That Promote Hawaiian Language And Culture.

HI HR147

Establishing A Legislative Working Group For The Continued Oversight Of The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands' Execution Of Funds Appropriated By Act 279, Session Laws Of Hawaii 2022.

HI HR120

Encouraging The Kawaihuelani Center For Hawaiian Language Of The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Further Provide Learning Resources And Opportunities That Promote Hawaiian Language And Culture.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.