Yesterday, Governor Josh Green, M.D. signed legislation to expand access to health care on Maui and to uplift career advancement opportunities for health care workers across the the state.

 To address the statewide shortage of health care workers, Governor Green signed HB 353, which appropriates $130,000 for instructional costs for the Certified Nurse Aide-to-Practical Nurse Bridge Program at University of Hawaiʻi Maui College; and $200,000 to provide student aid to participants in the CNA-to-LPN Program at the school. The appropriation includes funds for tuition, fees, supplies, and related costs. The program is designed especially for working certified nurse aides and other health care professionals who want to become licensed practical nurses, and will enhance the quality and provision of health care services on Maui.

Act 73, H.B. No. 1255, H.D. 1, S.D. 1, C.D. 1, Relating to Special Purpose Revenue Bonds – Authorizes the issuance of up to $20M in special purpose revenue bonds to assist West Maui Hospital Foundation, Inc. in the construction of West Maui Hospital and Medical Center in the county of Maui, including any necessary infrastructure. (CD1)

 Act 74, H.B. No. 353, H.D. 1, S.D. 1, C.D. 1, Relating to Health Care Education  – Appropriates funds for the expansion of the certified nurse aide to practical nurse bridge program at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui college, including funding for instructional costs and student aid. The allocation for the Certified Nurse Aide-to-Practical Nurse Bridge Program at University of Hawaiʻi Maui College will receive $130,000 for instructional costs, while $200,000 will be provided for student aid to be applied toward tuition, fees, supplies, and related costs. (CD1)

Photo credit: Office of Governor Josh Green