HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-02-19 Letter to Sylvia Luke and Ty J.K. Cuellen HB 2254, HD1 Relating to Loan Repayment for Health Care Professionals RoyTakemoto
o;Nty or N Managing Director
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Harry Kim ,•: � . :'
Mayor •�•�� _.:•;. Barbara J. Kossow
..................
piM Deputy Managing Director
County of Hawai`i
Office of the Mayor
25 Aupuni Street,Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawai'i 96720 • (808)961-8211 • Fax(808)961-6553
KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy., Bldg C • Kailua-Kona, Hawai'i 96740
(808)323-4444 • Fax(808)323-4440
February 19, 2020
Representative Sylvia Luke, Chair
Representative Ty J.K. Cullen, Vice Chair
Committee on Finance
Dear Chair Luke, Vice Chair Cullen, and Committee Members:
RE: HB 2254, HD1 Relating to Loan Repayment for Health Care
Professionals
The shortage of health care providers in Hawaii has been well documented. By
all accounts, it is getting worse, and is of major concern. It appears that a program of
loan repayment is currently in operation and is working to attract providers to federally
designated health professional shortage areas, and to geographic areas of Hawaii
found to be underserved.
A year ago, I was pleased to support SB 1404, which became Act 262. It seems
to be substantially the same as today's bill, HB 2254, HD1. Unless there is a flaw in the
program of which I am unaware, I hope that your Committee will recognize the
importance of this issue, see the value of the repayment program, and act favorably on
HB 2254, HD1.
Respectfully Submitted,
Harry Kim-
MAYOR
County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.