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 S.B. No. 1257 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to authorize issuance of general obligation bonds and to make an appropriation for the planning and design of the upgrade and expansion of the Molokai General Hospital.

Your Committee received testimony in favor of this measure from Maui County Council members and Molokai General Hospital.

Your Committee finds that Molokai residents experience the highest rates of diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and obesity in the State. In 1992, Molokai was federally designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area, and a gap remains between the need and availability of services. Over the next ten to fifteen years, the island will experience an increase in both resident and transient populations as major residential developments are planned. The Molokai General Hospital must accommodate the growing and changing health care needs of the people of Molokai. Your Committee further finds that the issuance of general obligation bonds is necessary for Molokai General Hospital to match federal moneys.

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 S.B. No. 1257 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.