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SR 116

URGING THE GOVERNOR TO DETERMINE A COURSE OF ACTION FOR THE STATE, SHOULD THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT CUT FUNDING FOR MEDICAID.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sharon Moriwaki

Hawaii urges its Governor to develop a contingency plan for maintaining Medicaid coverage if federal funding is cut, without creating binding obligations or new spending.

Referred to WAM.
#budgetcuts #federalfunding #medicaid #medicaidexpansion
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SR 116

Legislative bill overview

SR 116 is a non-binding resolution urging Hawaii's Governor to develop a contingency plan in case the federal government reduces Medicaid funding. The resolution does not appropriate funds or create new law, but rather requests that the executive branch prepare strategic options for maintaining healthcare coverage if federal support declines.

Why is this important

Medicaid covers approximately 300,000+ Hawaii residents (roughly 20% of the state population), making federal funding cuts a significant fiscal and public health concern. Without advance planning, sudden funding reductions could force difficult choices between cutting eligibility, reducing provider payments, or increasing state spending. This resolution asks for preparedness rather than reactive crisis management.

Potential points of contention

  • Partisan framing: Some may view this as unnecessarily alarmist about federal policy, while others see it as prudent planning given real proposals to restructure federal healthcare spending
  • State budget burden: Contingency planning that results in increased state Medicaid funding could strain Hawaii's general fund and require tax increases or cuts elsewhere
  • Unclear triggers: The resolution doesn't specify what level of federal cuts would trigger implementation of alternative plans, leaving ambiguity about actual state obligations

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

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