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Bill

Bill

HB 2009

RELATING TO FAMILY CAREGIVER SUPPORT.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 17 co-sponsors

Hawaii bill advances family caregiver support programs through committee with amendments pending to address funding, eligibility, and implementation details.

Passed Third Reading as amended in HD 2 with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Kong, Pierick excused (2). Transmitted to Senate.
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Bill Summary · HB 2009

Legislative bill overview

HB 2009 establishes or expands support programs for family caregivers in Hawaii, though the specific provisions are not detailed in the available legislative record. The bill has advanced through the House Committee on HSH (Health, Human Services & Homelessness) with a recommendation to pass subject to amendments, and is currently moving toward further consideration.

Why is this important

Family caregiving affects hundreds of thousands of Hawaii residents who provide unpaid care to aging relatives, disabled family members, or chronically ill dependents. Formal support systems—including respite care, training, counseling, and financial assistance—can reduce caregiver burnout, improve health outcomes for care recipients, and decrease reliance on institutional care. This legislation directly addresses a growing demographic need as Hawaii's population ages.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding mechanisms: The bill must clarify how programs are funded (general revenue, grants, insurance mechanisms, or cost-sharing) and whether costs fall on taxpayers, healthcare systems, or families themselves
  • Scope of eligibility: Disputes may arise over who qualifies as a "family caregiver," what types of care are covered, income thresholds, and whether support extends to all caregiving situations or prioritizes specific populations
  • Implementation details: The amendments recommended by committee may address concerns about program administration, coordination with existing services, workforce training requirements, and measurable outcomes or accountability standards

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

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