Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2001

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Health and Human Services, to which was referred H.B. No. 653, H.D. 1, entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to eliminate substance abuse counselor certification requirements for certain licensed professionals, such as physicians, psychologists, clinical social workers, and advanced practice registered nurses, for health insurance reimbursement.

Testimony in support of this measure was submitted by the Department of Health, Hawaii Psychiatric Association, Hawaii Psychological Association, Hawaii Medical Association, and the National Association of Social Workers.

Your Committee finds that there is a need for professionals with specialized training to treat substance abuse. With existing law requiring credentialing from the Department of Health, many certified and qualified professionals can't provide the service. Your Committee further finds that this measure could increase the number of licensed professionals who are eligible to be reimbursed for substance abuse treatment services, thus increasing the availability and accessibility of much needed substance abuse treatment.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Health and Human Services that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 653, H.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to the Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection and Housing.