Fire protection districts.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Bartels and 4 co-sponsors

House Bill 1113 transfers care responsibilities for Hansen's Disease patients from the Department of Health to Maui County, enhancing local support and preserving Kalaupapa's history.

Public Law 156

#countygovernment #firefighters;firedepartmentsanddistricts

# Summary of House Bill 1113 **Bill Number:** HB 1113 **Title:** Relating to Changes to Responsibilities of the Department of Health Concerning Patients, the County of Kalawao, and the Kalaupapa Settlement **Status:** Introduced and Passed First Reading **Introduced:** January 13, 2025 **Classification:** Bill **Subject:** Annual Report, DOH, Expenses, Hansen's Disease, Kalaupapa State Historical Area, Rules, Transfer to the County of Maui ## Purpose and Intent House Bill 1113 aims to amend existing laws regarding the responsibilities of the Department of Health (DOH) in relation to patients affected by Hansen's Disease, particularly those residing in the Kalaupapa Settlement on the island of Molokai, Hawaii. The bill seeks to clarify the roles of the DOH and the County of Maui, ensuring that the needs of patients and the historical significance of the Kalaupapa area are adequately addressed. ## Key Provisions - **Transfer of Responsibilities:** The bill proposes a transfer of certain responsibilities from the DOH to the County of Maui, specifically concerning the management and care of patients in the Kalaupapa Settlement. - **Annual Reporting:** It mandates the DOH to provide an annual report detailing expenses and activities related to the care of patients with Hansen's Disease, ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of resources. - **Regulatory Changes:** The bill includes provisions for updating rules and regulations that govern the care and management of Hansen's Disease patients, aligning them with current best practices and community needs. - **Historical Considerations:** The legislation emphasizes the importance of preserving the historical and cultural significance of the Kalaupapa Settlement, ensuring that any changes in management do not compromise its integrity. ## Affected Parties - **Department of Health (DOH):** The bill will alter the operational responsibilities of the DOH, requiring adjustments in how they manage patient care and reporting. - **County of Maui:** The County will assume additional responsibilities, necessitating potential changes in local governance and resource allocation for the care of Hansen's Disease patients. - **Patients and Residents of Kalaupapa:** The primary beneficiaries of the bill are the patients residing in the Kalaupapa Settlement, who will receive more localized care and support. ## Procedural Aspects - **Timeline:** The bill was introduced on January 13, 2025, and has passed its first reading. Further legislative actions are anticipated as it progresses through the legislative process. - **Emergency Clause:** An emergency clause has been adopted, indicating that the bill is considered urgent and necessary for the immediate preservation of public health and safety. - **Related Legislation:** HB 1113 has a companion bill, SB 1432, which may address similar issues or provide additional context to the legislative intent. ## Conclusion House Bill 1113 represents a significant shift in the management of Hansen's Disease care in Hawaii, with a focus on enhancing local governance and ensuring the well-being of affected individuals. The bill's provisions aim to foster a more responsive and accountable health care system for the unique needs of the Kalaupapa Settlement community.