Full Breakdown
Governor Signs Trio of Health-Care Measures Expanding Coverage and Forgiving Debt
7/25/2026, 4:47:00 AM
Governor Signs Trio of Health-Care Measures
On July 9, Governor Josh Green signed three bills into law that create new insurance requirements for fertility preservation, provide state-funded assistance for colorectal cancer screenings, and establish a Medical Debt Acquisition and Forgiveness Program. The legislation aims to broaden health-care access for Hawaii residents and to eliminate up to $91 million in outstanding medical debt for as many as 50,000 people.
Key Provisions and Expected Reach
- Fertility preservation coverage (House Bill 1864, now Act 218) obligates insurers, mutual benefit societies and health maintenance organizations to cover standard fertility-preservation services for patients undergoing treatments that may cause infertility. The requirement applies to policies issued or renewed after Dec. 31, 2026, making Hawaii the 22nd state with such a mandate.
- Colorectal cancer screening assistance (House Bill 1969, now Act 219) directs the Department of Human Services to fund screenings for uninsured, underinsured, or Medicaid-ineligible residents and to require follow-up colonoscopies without cost-sharing. Colorectal cancer kills about 260 Hawaiians each year.
- Medical-debt forgiveness program (Senate Bill 3025, now Act 220) enables the state, subject to funding, to partner with a nonprofit to purchase delinquent medical debt at a discount and cancel it. Officials estimate the program could erase $91 million owed by up to 50,000 residents, roughly one in 20 Hawaiians with debt on their credit reports.
Financial Impact and Debt-Forgiveness Plan
State Sen. Chris Lee noted the program could be funded with about $500,000, delivering a projected return of $91 million in debt relief. Residents would not apply directly; instead, qualified individuals would receive notice that their balances have been erased.
Official Statements & Responses
Governor Green emphasized the measures as a transformation of health and well-being, citing his experience in the medical field and the need for affordable, life-saving services. Dr. Michael Carney highlighted the historic nature of fertility-preservation coverage for young cancer patients. State Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole framed medical debt as a leading driver of financial ruin, stressing the program’s role in preventing families from choosing between rent and hospital bills.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It is with pride that we announce these measures which will truly transform the health and well-being of Hawaii,” — Gov. Josh Green
- “This is a historic moment for many of Hawaii's young cancer patients who, until now, not only had the heartache of receiving the devastating news of a cancer diagnosis, but also had the painful realization that the treatment for their cancer would result in the permanent inability for future fertility,” — Dr. Michael Carney, chair of the Hawaii Society for Clinical Oncologists
- “SB 3025 ensures that thousands of families in Hawaii don't have to choose between paying rent and paying off a hospital bill.” — State Sen. Chris Lee