Honorable Calvin K.Y. Say

Speaker, House of Representatives

Twenty-Second State Legislature

Regular Session of 2003

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Health, to which was referred H.R. No. 119 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this resolution is to promote universal immunization against hepatitis B by urging the Department of Health (DOH) to require full immunization against this disease of all students who attend any institution of higher education.

The University of Hawaii testified in support of this resolution. DOH supported the intent of this measure.

Currently, students at all post-secondary schools in Hawaii are required to present proof of immunization against or immunity to measles, mumps, and rubella. DOH is considering adding a hepatitis B requirement in its next revision of administrative rules planned for 2004. Such a step will help to prevent the spread of this disease.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Health that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of H.R. No. 119 and recommends that it be referred to the Committee on Finance.