HI HB1703

Appropriates funds to the University of Hawaii at Manoa to hire full-time psychologist positions to provide student mental health services, addressing documented shortages in counseling capacity.

Appropriates funds to hire a full-time case manager position at the University of Hawaii at Manoa to provide follow-up support for student mental health clients.

Identifies that UH Manoa's counseling center has only 7.5 full-time equivalent psychologists for 20,000 students, falling below the national guideline of one psychologist per 1,000-1,500 students.

Notes that non-urgent counseling waitlists begin by September each year, with initial intake appointments ranging from 5 days to 2.5 weeks at peak times.

Becomes effective July 1, 2050.