HI SR113

Urges the Department of Health to develop additional mental wellness facilities for children, adolescents, and young adults, and to improve the overall continuum of mental health care as outlined in the December 7, 2021 U.S. Surgeon General's advisory on protecting youth mental health.

Identifies only two inpatient psychiatric facilities in Hawaii (The Queen's Medical Center and Kahi Mohala Hospital, both on Oahu) with limited bed space for young people, resulting in families waiting hours or days in emergency rooms.

References 13 specific actions from the Surgeon General's advisory, including addressing economic and social barriers, ensuring safe online experiences, expanding mental health coverage, integrating screening into primary care, strengthening school-based programs, expanding telehealth, and supporting the mental health workforce.

Encourages the University of Hawai'i System to enhance workforce preparation in law, medicine, social work, public health, psychology, and pharmacy, and suggests the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands may provide property for treatment facilities.

Requires transmission of certified copies to the U.S. Surgeon General, state and county officials, the University of Hawai'i System, Hawaiian Homes Commission, and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.