HI HCR159

Encourages each state agency and department to implement worksite wellness programs consistent with the Department of Human Resources Development Policy No. 801.001, which was approved on October 1, 2014.

Recommends that state agencies and departments designate a wellness leader manager to collaborate with executive management and employees to develop wellness infrastructure, oversee implementation of wellness policies and committees, and assess program effectiveness.

Requires the Director of Human Resources Development to transmit copies of this resolution to all state department heads, the Board of Trustees of the Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund, the Hawaii Medical Service Association, and Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc.

Cites research showing that effective worksite wellness programs can reduce employer medical costs by $3.27 for every dollar spent and reduce absenteeism costs by $2.73 per dollar invested.