Bill > SB162

This bill establishes the Hawaii State Fellows Program within the Department of Human Resources Development to create a structured fellowship opportunity for recent college graduates to work in state government. The program will provide full-time, paid 10-11 month positions across various state agencies, offering participants professional development opportunities, leadership training, mentorship, and hands-on experience in public policy and governance. Eligible applicants must be at least 20 years old, have completed a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA, be authorized to work in the United States, and submit a comprehensive application including a personal statement, resume, references, and recommendations. The program will prioritize candidates with pre-existing ties to Hawaii or a demonstrated commitment to long-term leadership in the state. The Department of Human Resources Development, in consultation with the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, will coordinate program implementation, recruitment, and administrative procedures. The bill requires the department to submit a detailed report to the Legislature before the 2026 regular session, documenting the program's participation rates, key accomplishments, and budget. Funding will be appropriated from general state revenues, and the program is set to begin on July 1, 2025.

Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=162&year=2025