Bill > SB734

This bill addresses Hawaii's shortage of social workers by establishing a social work training program for nonviolent incarcerated individuals, with the goal of helping them explore a professional pathway in social work and become eligible to work as assistants to licensed social workers. The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, in collaboration with the Department of Human Services, will develop the program and may coordinate with accredited higher education institutions, private entities, and nonprofit organizations to provide training. The departments are required to submit progress reports to the legislature before the 2026 and 2027 regular sessions, detailing their findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation. The bill includes an appropriation of funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support the program's development and implementation. The legislation is motivated by the state's critical need for social workers to help individuals manage mental health challenges and cope with life stressors, and by the potential for nonviolent incarcerated individuals to gain meaningful employment and successfully reintegrate into society after completing their training.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=734&year=2026