The bill mandates the Department of Health to conduct a feasibility study for establishing an outpatient mental health facility specifically targeting children and adolescents in the Ocean View region. This is aimed at identifying tangible solutions to bridge the existing mental health service gaps in the area. The study must explore ways to enhance accessibility to mental health resources and is expected to yield a report with findings and recommendations, including proposed legislation, by a set deadline preceding the regular session of 2024.
Summary
House Bill 81 addresses a critical mental health crisis affecting children in Hawaii. The bill recognizes alarming statistics from the 2022 Kids Count Data Book, indicating a significant increase in children facing anxiety and depression. Furthermore, the data outlined that suicide has become the fourth leading cause of fatal injury for children aged fifteen and under, highlighting the urgent need for intervention. This situation is particularly dire in rural communities such as Ocean View, Milolii, Naalehu, and Pahala, where access to essential mental health services is severely limited due to infrastructure gaps.
Contention
The passage of HB 81 is anticipated to generate discourse surrounding resource allocation for mental health services, especially in underserved areas. Supporters of the bill argue that it represents a necessary step towards prioritizing children's mental health and addressing rampant service deficiencies in rural areas. However, there may be contention regarding funding and the prioritization of resources, particularly as stakeholders seek to balance immediate community needs with broader state health initiatives. Concerns may arise over the efficacy of the proposed facility and its ability to adequately serve the population it aims to help.