URGING THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TO UNDERTAKE PRELIMINARY EDUCATION, OUTREACH, AND VACCINATION DRIVE EFFORTS AT SCHOOLS IN HAWAII WITH VACCINATION RATES UNDER THIRTY PERCENT, BEGINNING AT THE START OF THE 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS AND OTHER LOCAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS.

HCR 173 is a non-binding resolution urging Hawaii's Department of Health to partner with community health centers and healthcare providers to launch education, outreach, and vaccination drives at schools with vaccination rates below 30% starting in the 2025-2026 school year. It directly affects schools in Hawaii with low immunization rates, as highlighted by data showing 17% of students lack complete vaccination records. The resolution requires the Department of Health to develop a long-term plan to address vaccine hesitancy in collaboration with the Department of Education and submit a report to the Legislature by 2026. It does not create new laws but recommends specific actions based on successful models from other states. The resolution emphasizes community engagement and culturally competent approaches to improve vaccination rates.