Hawaii Senate Bill SB569

Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/25
• Refer: 1/21/25

Caption

RELATING TO HEALTH.

Summary

SB569 appropriates state general funds to support the operation of an additional advanced life support ambulance on the island of Hawaii, specifically to be based in the Makalei area of North Kona. The bill states that North Kona residents face limited access to primary care, long travel distances to medical services, and transportation barriers, making emergency medical services a critical point of access to care. It also cites population growth and an aging population as reasons for expanding ambulance coverage. The bill provides $1,750,000 for fiscal year 2025-2026 and $1,750,000 for fiscal year 2026-2027, or so much as may be necessary, to be expended by the Department of Health. The funds are intended to cover operating costs and personnel costs for state-certified emergency medical service personnel. If enacted, the measure would add a dedicated ambulance resource to the Hawaii County emergency medical services system and would take effect on July 1, 2025.

Impact

SB569 would create a new recurring state appropriation for emergency medical services on the island of Hawaii and direct the Department of Health to use the funds for an additional advanced life support ambulance based in Makalei. It would not amend regulatory standards or licensing rules, but it would increase state spending and expand EMS capacity in North Kona, potentially improving response times and access to emergency care for residents and visitors in the area.

Sentiment

The available context suggests generally favorable support for the bill’s public-safety and health-access goals, as reflected in the bill’s findings emphasizing unmet need, long response times, and the importance of timely emergency care. However, there is no committee transcript or recorded vote history provided, so the level of support or opposition cannot be measured from the available materials. The bill was referred to the Senate HHS and WAM committees, indicating it was under review for both health policy and fiscal implications.

Contention

The main point of potential contention is fiscal: the bill requires a significant general-fund appropriation over two fiscal years for an additional ambulance and staffing. Supporters are likely to emphasize improved emergency response, reduced death and disability, and better service in a geographically isolated area, while any skepticism would likely focus on cost, ongoing operating obligations, and whether the new unit is the most efficient way to address access-to-care problems in North Kona. No specific objections or amendments are provided in the record.