HI HR166

Urges the Department of Education and Department of Human Services to inform families about free immunizations available to eligible individuals under 21 years of age through the Hawaii Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) Program.

Notes that CDC data shows only 78.5 percent of children under three and less than 74 percent of children ages 13-17 received recommended vaccinations as of 2011.

Recognizes that children living below the federal poverty level receive lower vaccination rates than those at or above the poverty level.

Identifies the EPSDT Program as a federally mandated program providing preventive and comprehensive health care services at no cost to Medicaid-eligible individuals under age 21, including recommended vaccinations.

Directs certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Chairperson of the Board of Education, the Superintendent of Education, and the Director of Human Services.