H.R. 165 Summary

• Requests the Department of Health to study whether bed-hold policies in assisted living facilities create undue financial burdens on residents.

• Identifies that Hawaii has 17 assisted living facilities with 2,367 units at monthly rents ranging from $3,800 to $8,800, primarily serving elderly residents needing assistance with daily living activities.

• Notes that approximately 25% of Medicare residents are re-hospitalized within 30 days after transfer to assisted living facilities, creating situations where residents must pay for both hospital care and bed-hold fees simultaneously.

• Highlights that bed-hold policies may disproportionately affect vulnerable populations including elderly, low-income, and chronically ill individuals, potentially causing residents to delay necessary medical care.

• Requires the Department of Health to submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2025 Regular Session convenes.