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HB 1113

RELATING TO CHANGES TO RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH CONCERNING PATIENTS, THE COUNTY OF KALAWAO, AND THE KALAUPAPA SETTLEMENT.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nadine Nakamura

HB 1113 reassigns Hawaii Department of Health responsibilities for patient care and governance at Kalaupapa Settlement, affecting healthcare administration for Hansen's disease patients in Kalawao County.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 1113

Legislative bill overview

HB 1113 modifies the Department of Health's administrative responsibilities regarding patient care, governance structures, and operations specific to Kalawao County and the Kalaupapa Settlement—a former Hansen's disease (leprosy) patient colony on Molokai. The bill reassigns certain departmental duties, likely affecting how healthcare and community services are managed for this unique population with historical significance.

Why is this important

Kalaupapa Settlement is home to fewer than 200 former and current Hansen's disease patients and represents a distinct cultural and historical community with specialized healthcare needs. Changes to Department of Health responsibilities could affect access to medical services, community autonomy, and the preservation of this unique settlement's quasi-sovereign status and resident welfare.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of Department authority: Unclear whether changes expand or reduce DOH oversight, potentially affecting patient protections or community self-governance
  • Budget and resource implications: Reallocating departmental responsibilities may have unbudgeted costs or affect service delivery quality to an isolated, vulnerable population
  • Historical preservation vs. modernization: Balancing contemporary healthcare standards with Kalaupapa's distinct cultural and historical identity and resident preferences

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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