HI HB1148

Appropriates general revenues to the Office of the Governor to establish one temporary full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) mental health technician certificate of competence program coordinator position for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025.

Funds support the University of Hawaii Windward Community College's mental health technician certificate of competence program, developed in collaboration with the Hawaii State Hospital, to address the severe shortage of mental health service providers in the State.

The existing three-course certificate program provides foundational mental health knowledge through asynchronous online and in-person formats available statewide through the University of Hawaii system.

Coordinator position will help expand program capacity by providing key personnel and supporting a planned one-year advanced certificate program that builds clinical skills for higher-level mental health positions.

Takes effect on July 1, 2050.