Bill > SB637

This bill aims to address Hawaii's healthcare workforce needs by appropriating state general revenues to support various nursing education programs across the University of Hawaii (UH) system. Specifically, the bill provides funding for four key nursing initiatives: a collaboration phase III program at UH Manoa and West Oahu, an online Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science (BS) program, a pre-nursing pathway program at UH West Oahu, and an expansion of the nursing cohort size at UH Hilo. The legislative findings emphasize the critical importance of these programs in addressing healthcare shortages, supporting an aging population, reducing healthcare disparities in underserved areas, and preparing for future public health challenges. While the exact dollar amounts are not specified in the bill, the funding is allocated for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, with the understanding that the funds will be used to develop a more robust nursing workforce and improve healthcare accessibility and quality in Hawaii. The bill is set to take effect on July 31, 2050, which appears to be a placeholder date for implementation.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=637&year=2026