HI SR65

Encourages the Department of Health to establish a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Interagency Coordinating Council within the Family Health Services Division to coordinate statewide information, education, policies, and support services.

Council comprises no more than 17 members including at least three individuals with FASD or relatives/guardians of those with FASD, representatives from multiple state departments (Health, Education, Human Services, Judiciary), and representatives from foster/adoptive family agencies and Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems.

Council is encouraged to meet at least quarterly and should consider initiatives including increasing public awareness, expanding identification and intervention for at-risk pregnant women, coordinating resources, improving service delivery, and developing a comprehensive statewide system of care.

Council members serve without compensation and should utilize cost-efficient communication methods such as teleconferencing and videoconferencing.

Council must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2015 Regular Session convenes.