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SR 19

REQUESTING THE TAX REVIEW COMMISSION TO IDENTIFY POSSIBLE MEANS BY WHICH THE HAWAII LONG-TERM CARE FINANCING PROGRAM CAN BE IMPLEMENTED.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sharon Moriwaki and 1 co-sponsor

Hawaii legislature requests tax study on financing mechanisms for a potential state long-term care insurance program to address aging population needs.

Report and Resolution Adopted, as amended (SD 1).
#financingprogram #insurance #long-termcare #medicaid #taxreviewcommission
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Bill Summary · SR 19

Legislative bill overview

SR 19 requests Hawaii's Tax Review Commission to study and identify financing mechanisms for implementing a state long-term care program. The resolution directs the commission to examine potential funding models and report back to the legislature on how to establish sustainable financing for long-term care services.

Why is this important

Hawaii faces demographic challenges with an aging population that will increasingly need long-term care services (nursing homes, assisted living, in-home care). Without a coordinated financing strategy, costs could overwhelm families and state budgets. This resolution is a first step toward potentially creating a state-administered or state-supported long-term care insurance program similar to models in other states.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax implications: Any long-term care program will require new revenue sources, which could mean payroll taxes, premium increases, or general fund appropriations—politically sensitive in Hawaii's high cost-of-living environment
  • Program scope and eligibility: Debates will likely emerge over who qualifies for benefits, what services are covered, and whether it competes with or supplements private long-term care insurance
  • Implementation complexity: Hawaii's geographic isolation (islands) and existing healthcare workforce shortages could make delivering long-term care services expensive and logistically challenging compared to mainland states

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

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