HI SB658

Amends Section 432E-6, Hawaii Revised Statutes, to change how attorneys' fees are awarded in external review proceedings for managed care plan decisions.

Shifts attorneys' fees responsibility from managed care plans to the non-prevailing party, requiring the losing party to pay the prevailing party's reasonable attorneys' fees as determined by the commissioner.

Caps attorneys' fees at 25% of the award amount, or the lower percentage specified in any written contract between the enrollee and their attorney.

Prohibits attorneys' fees awards to enrollees unless they signed a written fee agreement before or when requesting external review, and prohibits fee stacking from prior external reviews.

Takes effect upon approval and is intended to reduce frivolous external review cases while ensuring equitable treatment for managed care plans including QUEST plans.