What's Being Discussed
The Hawaii Advisory Commission on Drug Abuse and Controlled Substances (HACDACS) is holding a public meeting on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The meeting is hybrid — attend in person in Kapolei or join by Zoom (Meeting ID: 817 6510 7554, Passcode: 803177).

Recap of an educational event on nonmedical cannabis use among Hawaii youth and its mental health impacts
Whether to reschedule the November 24, 2026 meeting
Progress on updating the commission's bylaws
Planning future meeting topics, such as residential treatment programs, virtual substance use services, mental health and addiction overlap, and substance use among active duty military members
Preparation of the commission's annual report to the Hawaii Legislature, covering topics like telehealth, Medicaid data tools, AI guidelines, and a Second Responder Team pilot program
A presentation on updated Medicaid eligibility requirements from the Department of Human Services Med-QUEST Division

Decisions Expected

Approval of minutes from the September 22, 2026 meeting
Decision on rescheduling the November 2026 meeting
Assigning writing responsibilities for the legislative report

Who Should Pay Attention

People affected by substance use disorders or seeking treatment services
Healthcare providers, treatment programs, and social service organizations
Families of youth or military members dealing with substance use issues
Anyone interested in how Medicaid coverage for addiction services may be changing
Community members who want to submit public testimony

To submit written testimony or request accessibility accommodations, contact Robyn Loudermilk at DOH.HACDACSChair@doh.hawaii.gov or (808) 692-8198.