HB1825 Summary

• Appropriates general revenue funds for fiscal year 2022-2023 to expand the Hawaii State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), which assists Medicare-eligible individuals with navigating the federal program.

• SHIP currently operates with only two full-time employees who oversee more than eighty volunteers providing free assistance to the public.

• Expands the program by contracting with third-party service providers and staffing consultants, and by recruiting additional volunteers.

• Provides state funding support to ensure program stability and continuity, as current operations are fully funded by federal sources that could be reduced or eliminated.

• Takes effect on July 1, 2022.