HI HB628

Requires at least 3 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 members include a college or university degree in relevant fields with focus on native Hawaiian and indigenous health, work history demonstrating knowledge of native Hawaiian health or traditional healing practices, health or advocacy work addressing native Hawaiian inequities, or substantial community experience as a native Hawaiian traditional and customary practitioner.

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

The council composition requirement must be met no later than July 1, 2022.

Act takes effect upon approval.