Informing the Legislature that on July 3, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB705 HD1 SD1 CD1 (ACT 287).

This bill establishes the "medi-medi project" within Hawaii's Executive Office on Aging to help underserved populations - including older adults, Medicare beneficiaries, individuals with disabilities, and those in rural or low-income communities - access low-income health coverage programs like Medicaid and Medicare Part D Extra Help. It streamlines application processes, provides community outreach, and offers one-on-one assistance for eligibility renewals, addressing barriers such as language differences or lack of awareness. The bill appropriates $121,016 for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to fund a full-time staff position and outreach activities, including a one-year pilot in Kalihi Valley for disadvantaged communities. The project aims to connect eligible residents with benefits they may otherwise miss due to complex enrollment systems.