HI HB2581

Creates the State Innovation Waiver Task Force attached to the office of the governor to develop a health care reform plan for obtaining a federal Section 1332 state innovation waiver under the Affordable Care Act.

Task force membership includes 16 members representing state agencies (health, labor, human services, insurance), the Hawaii Health Connector, healthcare organizations, business representatives, and legislative designees with health care expertise.

Task force shall examine alternative approaches to federal health reform requirements, including premium rate variations based on age, and develop strategies providing coverage that is comprehensive, affordable, and available to as many Hawaii residents as the federal act while remaining budget neutral.

Requires submission of interim reports to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2015 and 2016 regular sessions, and a final report with findings, recommendations, and draft waiver application before the 2017 regular session.

Task force dissolves on June 30, 2017; members serve without compensation but receive reimbursement for necessary expenses.