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HB 842

RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 4 co-sponsors

HB 842 would expand mental health services at University of Hawaii campuses, advancing from HED committee approval but facing Finance Committee review on funding and implementation feasibility.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 842

Legislative bill overview

HB 842 addresses mental health services and support systems at the University of Hawaii. While the bill's specific provisions are not detailed in the legislative record provided, it emerged from the Higher Education (HED) committee with amendments and was referred to the Finance (FIN) committee for budget consideration. The measure carries over to the 2026 Regular Session, suggesting either financial or substantive complexities requiring further deliberation.

Why is this important

University mental health crises have become increasingly acute nationwide, with students facing depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders at elevated rates. Hawaii's university system serves thousands of students across multiple islands, making mental health infrastructure a critical public health and educational access issue. Adequate mental health resources directly impact student retention, academic success, and campus safety.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and funding source: The Finance Committee referral and split votes on Second Reading suggest disagreement over budget implications and whether adequate funding mechanisms exist for implementation
  • Scope of services: Ambiguity about which mental health services are mandated (counseling, psychiatric care, crisis intervention, peer support) and whether existing staff can meet demand
  • Implementation challenges: Questions about whether the university system has capacity to expand services across all campuses, particularly on neighbor islands with limited mental health infrastructure

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

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