Bill > HB430

This bill establishes two key internship programs aimed at providing work experience for high school and college students in Hawaii. First, the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations will be authorized to create an on-the-job training program that partners with private sector employers, offering up to $20 per hour in wage reimbursements for internships lasting up to twelve weeks for college students and six weeks for high school students. Eligible interns must be Hawaii residents, at least 16 years old, currently enrolled in school or recently graduated, and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA. Participating employers must provide meaningful work experience, pay at least $20 per hour, offer mentorship, and ensure interns do not displace existing workers. The second program establishes a state internship and workforce development program within state executive branch departments, focusing on placing interns in agencies with significant workforce shortages and providing comprehensive training and mentorship. The bill also amends workers' compensation coverage to ensure the State is responsible for interns' coverage and appropriates $1.8 million to the Department of Education to support these internship programs. The overall goal is to create opportunities for students to gain practical work experience, build skills, and potentially develop career pathways in both public and private sectors.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=430&year=2025