WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 674

RELATING TO THE HAWAII NATIONAL GUARD.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 12 co-sponsors

Bill HB 674 enhances dental and vision care for Hawaii National Guard members, ensuring better healthcare access and integration with TRICARE for service members and families.

Reported from PBS (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 453) as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to FIN.
#dental #departmentofdefense #insurance #nationalguard #tricare #vision
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 674

Summary of Bill HB 674: Relating to the Hawaii National Guard

Purpose and Intent

Bill HB 674 aims to enhance the benefits and services available to members of the Hawaii National Guard, particularly in the areas of dental and vision care. The bill seeks to address gaps in healthcare coverage for service members and their families, ensuring they have access to necessary medical services.

Key Provisions

  • Healthcare Coverage: The bill proposes to expand the scope of healthcare benefits for Hawaii National Guard members, specifically focusing on dental and vision services.
  • TRICARE Integration: It aims to improve the integration of TRICARE, the healthcare program for military personnel, with state-level healthcare services, thereby streamlining access to care for National Guard members.
  • Insurance Provisions: The legislation may include provisions that facilitate better insurance coverage options for National Guard members, ensuring they receive adequate support for dental and vision needs.

Affected Parties

  • Hawaii National Guard Members: The primary beneficiaries of this bill will be the members of the Hawaii National Guard and their families, who will gain improved access to essential healthcare services.
  • Department of Defense: The bill will also impact the Department of Defense as it aligns state healthcare services with federal military healthcare programs.
  • Healthcare Providers: Local dental and vision care providers may see an increase in patients as a result of expanded coverage.

Legislative Timeline and Actions

  • Introduced: January 17, 2025
  • First Reading: January 21, 2025
  • Committee Referral: Referred to the committees on Public Safety (PBS) and Finance (FIN).
  • Committee Recommendations:
    • On January 31, 2025, the PBS committee recommended that the bill be passed with amendments, with a vote of 9 Ayes and 1 Excused.
    • The bill was reported from PBS on February 12, 2025, as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to FIN.
  • Second Reading: The bill passed its Second Reading on February 12, 2025, with no votes against it, and was referred to the FIN committee for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • SB 88: This bill has a companion in the Senate, which may address similar issues regarding healthcare for military personnel.

Conclusion

HB 674 represents a significant step towards improving healthcare access for Hawaii National Guard members, particularly in dental and vision care. By enhancing the integration of TRICARE and local healthcare services, the bill aims to ensure that service members receive the comprehensive support they need. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final provisions and impact of this important measure.

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

Sign in to ask a question.