HI HR167

Requests the Legislative Reference Bureau to conduct a study on best practices for nurse staffing in healthcare facilities due to persistent staffing shortages exacerbated by COVID-19.

Study shall examine best practices set by entities like The Joint Commission, effectiveness of different staffing standards, staffing regulations in other states, and alternative approaches such as acuity-based or nurse-driven staffing models.

Study must assess experiences and perspectives of healthcare professionals including nurses, administrators, and other stakeholders regarding staffing standards.

Study shall evaluate potential benefits and challenges of implementing staffing standards in Hawaii and calculate costs associated with implementing various staffing standards including nurse-to-patient ratios.

Legislative Reference Bureau must submit a report with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2025.