HI SB193

Requires at least three members of the State Council on Mental Health to have demonstrated knowledge of or work experience involving Native Hawaiian concepts of well-being, culturally-grounded mental health methodologies, or traditional healing or health practices.

Qualifications for these three members include: a relevant college or university degree with focus on Native Hawaiian and indigenous health; work history demonstrating knowledge of Native Hawaiian health and traditional practices such as ho'oponopono, lā'au lapa'au, or lomilomi; health or advocacy work history addressing Native Hawaiian inequities; or substantial community experience as a Native Hawaiian traditional and customary healing practitioner.

Findings establish that Native Hawaiian youth are 2.3 times more likely to die by suicide compared to Caucasian youth in Hawaii and twice as likely to attempt suicide, and that culturally-based programs are four times more successful in addressing mental health needs.

Acknowledges that cultural incongruence with western mental health approaches may contribute to Native Hawaiians' underutilization of mental health services and emphasizes the need for culturally responsive policies and programs.

Takes effect upon approval, with the council's composition required to comply with these new provisions no later than July 1, 2020.