HI HB628

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 may be demonstrated through a college or university degree in relevant fields (psychology, social work, public health, nursing, Hawaiian studies, health administration, or medicine) with focus on native Hawaiian and indigenous health or traditional healing practices such as ho'oponopono, lā'au lapa'au, or lomilomi.

Qualifications may also be demonstrated through work history addressing native Hawaiian health and indigenous practices, health/social/advocacy work addressing native Hawaiian inequities, or substantial community experience as a native Hawaiian traditional healing practitioner.

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes section 334-10 to add this requirement to the council's composition while maintaining existing requirements for service area representation, nonprovider and non-state employee majorities, and adequate parent representation.

Takes effect upon approval with compliance required by July 1, 2022.