Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB1015

Introduced
1/20/23  
Refer
1/27/23  
Report Pass
2/17/23  
Refer
2/17/23  
Report Pass
3/3/23  
Engrossed
3/7/23  

Caption

Relating To Health Care Education.

Impact

The bill proposes appropriating specific funds for instructional costs and student aid, enabling an expansion from ten to thirty licensed practical nursing students annually. This enlargement of the program is essential to accommodate the state's growing need for health care personnel and aims to prepare graduates for various medical settings under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians. By increasing available trained professionals, the legislation targets improving the overall quality of health care within the state.

Summary

SB1015, relating to health care education, aims to expand the certified nurse aide to practical nurse bridge program at the University of Hawaii Maui College. The program is designed for working certified nurse aides and other health care professionals who wish to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs) without leaving their current jobs. This bill acknowledges the increasing demand for trained nursing professionals in Hawaii and seeks to facilitate educational opportunities for individuals currently employed in the health care sector.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB1015 appears positive, reflecting a collective recognition of the importance of enhancing health care education in the state. Supporters advocate for the bill's potential to ease the pathway to a nursing career for many working professionals, thus directly addressing the healthcare workforce shortage. The positive outlook is bolstered by partnerships with health organizations like Hale Makua and Kaiser Permanente Hawaii, further enhancing the program's credibility.

Contention

While the sentiment is largely favorable towards SB1015, concerns may arise regarding the adequacy of funding and resources to ensure the program's success. Additionally, there may be discussions about the timing of when the program will effectively begin, as the proposed act states it will take effect on July 1, 2050. This long lead time may prompt debates on whether the funding should be allocated sooner to address immediate workforce needs in the state.

Companion Bills

HI HB353

Same As Relating To Health Care Education.

Similar Bills

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2025)

MD SB360

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2025)

MD SB181

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2024)

MD HB200

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2024)

PA HB611

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB290

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2023)