Hawaii House Bill HR83

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 3/31/22
• Refer: 3/31/22

Caption

Urging The Department Of Health To Employ The Team 6b Contact Tracing Team As Permanent Staff And Hire Other Members From The Native Hawaiian And Pacific Islander Communities In An Effort To Address The Health Inequities That Exist And Create Better Access To Culturally Relevant Programs For Native Hawaiians And Pacific Islanders.

Impact

The resolution aims to mitigate the adverse health impacts experienced by Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders, who have borne a significant share of COVID-19 cases in Hawaii. By making Team 6B a permanent entity, the Department of Health would ensure consistent and culturally appropriate engagement with these communities. The hiring of local staff members from these communities is intended to enhance trust and relevancy in health communications, helping to create programs that effectively resonate with the populations served.

Summary

House Resolution 83 urges the Hawaii Department of Health to establish the Team 6B contact tracing team as permanent staff and recruit additional members from Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities. The resolution seeks to address significant health inequities that these communities have faced, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, where they were disproportionately affected. The resolution is reflective of ongoing efforts to create better access to culturally relevant health programs and services tailored to the needs of these communities.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HR83 supports the notion of improving health outcomes through culturally relevant measures and community involvement. Advocates believe that permanently employing individuals who understand the specific challenges and perspectives of the Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander populations will lead to better outreach and education regarding health resources, thereby improving health disparities. There is a strong recognition of the historical context of these challenges, underscoring a need for remedial action.

Contention

While there is broad support for address health inequities, there may be practical concerns regarding the effective implementation of such a diverse hiring approach and the sustainability of ongoing funding for these initiatives. Additionally, some stakeholders may question whether the resolution will translate into meaningful action or whether it will remain a symbolic gesture without the necessary legislative backing and resources to fulfill its objectives.