Hawaii Senate Bill SR144

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22
• Report Pass: 4/4/22
• Passed: 4/5/22

Caption

Urging The Department Of Health's Child And Adolescent Mental Health Division To Conduct A Feasibility Study On The Establishment Of A Community Mental Health Center Office, Also Known As A Family Guidance Center Office, In Kau In The County Of Hawaii.

Impact

The urgency for a new Family Guidance Center office stems from the operational difficulties posed by the closure of the Kona office, which has placed an undue burden on families in the southern region of Hawaii Island. With children and youth having to travel up to 100 miles to reach the nearest active centers, establishing a local office is deemed imperative to safeguard their health and well-being. The bill proposes augmenting current services and responding to the growing needs for mental health support in the region.

Summary

Senate Resolution 144 urges the Department of Health's Child and Adolescent Mental Health Division to conduct a feasibility study on the establishment of a Community Mental Health Center Office, known as a Family Guidance Center, in Kaū, located in Hawaii County. This initiative is prompted by the necessity to enhance access to critical mental health services for children and youth facing serious emotional or behavioral challenges. Currently, these populations face significant travel distances to access existing facilities, particularly given the closure of the Kona office which necessitates long journeys for many residents.

Contention

While the resolution focuses on improving mental health access for youth, there may be ongoing discussions regarding funding and resource allocation for the proposed feasibility study. Stakeholders will likely advocate for timely and well-considered recommendations that can facilitate the establishment of the new office, ensuring that it is responsive to the immediate needs of the community. Furthermore, the outcome of this feasibility study is expected to inform any necessary legislative action in the future, potentially influencing broader state mental health policies.