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Bill

Bill

HB 1674

RELATING TO FAMILY CAREGIVER SUPPORT.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 21 co-sponsors

HB 1674 establishes support services for Hawaii family caregivers managing dependent relatives, advancing to finance review after January introduction.

Referred to HSH, FIN, referral sheet 1
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Bill Summary · HB 1674

Legislative bill overview

HB 1674 is a Hawaii bill that provides support services and resources for family caregivers who care for aging relatives, children with disabilities, or other dependent family members. The bill has recently been introduced and passed first reading, currently awaiting committee review in Health and Social Services (HSH) and Finance (FIN) committees.

Why is this important

Family caregivers often face significant financial, emotional, and physical burdens while receiving minimal public support or recognition. Formalizing caregiver support programs can reduce caregiver burnout, improve health outcomes for both caregivers and care recipients, and potentially decrease reliance on more expensive institutional care settings. Hawaii's aging population makes this particularly relevant as demand for family caregiving increases.

Potential points of contention

  • Program funding and costs: Finance committee will scrutinize how the state funds these services amid budget constraints, and whether funding is adequate or creates unfunded mandates
  • Scope of eligible caregivers: Disagreement may arise over which family relationships qualify (biological family only, chosen family, in-laws, etc.) and income thresholds for assistance
  • Service specificity: Unclear whether bill provides direct cash payments, respite care, tax credits, training programs, or counseling—different approaches benefit different populations and have different fiscal impacts

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

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