Hawaii

Legislation*

*legislation that was introduced, but not passed

2005

HI H.B. 1484 – Introduced January 20, 2005*

House Bill 2011 proposed an appropriation of $6.1 million to the Hawaii Department of Human Services to restore dental coverage for adults enrolled in Medicaid and QUEST. The bill cited that inadequate oral health can lead to systemic infections, low birth weight, poor pregnancy outcomes, and undiagnosed oral cancer. It emphasized the link between dental health and employment prospects. The funding was contingent on receiving $9.9 million in federal funds. The bill was scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2005. Previous iterations of this bill were introduced in 2003.

2009

HI H.B. 895 – Enacted May 8, 2009

House Bill 895 increased taxes on tobacco products other than cigarettes, including smokeless tobacco, snuff, cigars, little cigars, and pipe tobacco. The bill cited findings linking smokeless tobacco use to oral cancer, noting the presence of carcinogens like nitrosamines and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons. It highlighted that smokeless tobacco users face a significantly higher risk of oral, esophageal, and stomach cancers, as well as leukoplakia and cardiovascular disease. The act aimed to deter youth usage and generate revenue for public health initiatives. It was enacted on May 8, 2009, after a veto override.

2018

Hi. Act 107 (H.B. 1778) – Enacted July 5, 2018

Hawaii Act 107 amended state workers’ compensation law to address cancer-related claims for firefighters. The law followed findings from a 2013 NIOSH study indicating higher rates of oral, respiratory, digestive, and urinary cancers among firefighters. It mandated coverage for medical care, services, and supplies related to cancers including oral cancer, for firefighters with at least five years of service. Reimbursement was set at 110% to 150% of Medicare rates. The measure aimed to improve timely access to treatment without creating new benefits.