Enact living wage to boost keiki health
Poverty is the main reason children experience poor health. As a pediatrician I see evidence of this every day. I am particularly impressed by how a little extra family income results in fewer premature births, less child maltreatment, and fewer teen pregnancies.
Numerous studies have shown that even small boosts in family income translate into important health benefits, including buying more healthy food, and reduced family stress.
That is why a number of the bills that are currently moving through the legislature this session have the potential to dramatically improve children’s health on these islands. They include the bills to enact a living wage (Senate Bill 789 and House Bill 1191)—provided it is a real living wage offering real financial relief immediately, not $2.40 cents in five years, as one of the bills proposes.
This year the legislature has the opportunity to reduce the burden placed on children because of these social determinants. As a doctor I see the price too many children pay in the form of ailments that can be traced to poverty. I urge lawmakers to enact a real living wage to help my most vulnerable patients have a better shot at life. We cannot afford to fail our children.
