HR 50 Summary

• Recognizes and supports collaborative efforts between the Department of Health, Hep Free Hawaii, and other stakeholders to develop Hawaii's first statewide plan to eliminate viral hepatitis.

• Acknowledges that approximately 4,000 preventable hepatitis-related deaths occur daily worldwide, and up to 63,000 individuals in Hawaii may be affected with hepatitis B or C.

• Notes Hawaii has one of the highest rates of liver cancer in the nation, primarily caused by hepatitis B and C, and recognizes the opioid epidemic's contribution to increasing hepatitis infections.

• Directs presentation of the statewide elimination plan, including implementation strategies and recommended legislation, at an informational briefing to the Legislature prior to the Regular Session of 2021.

• References the federal National Viral Hepatitis Action Plan and recognizes disproportionate impacts on specific populations including baby boomers, people who inject drugs, American Indians and Alaska Natives, Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders, and homeless individuals.