HI HB2529

Establishes a behavioral health exempt employee pilot program administered by the Department of Health, running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2029.

Allows the Department of Health to fill civil service position vacancies in its Behavioral Health Services Administration exempt from chapter 76, Hawaii Revised Statutes requirements.

Requires employees hired under the pilot program to be concurrently considered for regular civil service employment, with termination required if found ineligible for civil service status.

Requires the Department of Health to submit annual reports to the legislature no later than 20 days before each regular session from 2025-2030, including program progress, funding needs, and proposed legislation.

Declares that general fund expenditure ceiling for fiscal year 2024-2025 will be exceeded and appropriates unspecified funding from general revenues for the pilot program.