Bill > SB1061

This bill establishes a two-year digital navigator pilot program aimed at addressing digital equity in Hawaii by providing technical assistance with computers and electronic devices to residents. The program will be run by the Hawaii Broadband and Digital Equity Office and will have multiple locations across different Hawaiian islands, including two on Oahu, two on Hawaii Island, and one each on Kauai, Maui, Molokai, and Lanai. The program recognizes that digital equity is crucial for economic development, access to social services, remote work opportunities, and essential government, educational, and medical services, particularly for vulnerable and underserved populations. The bill seeks to bridge the digital divide by offering technical support and potentially partnering with the Hawaii State Public Library System and other state agencies. The office will be required to submit a report on the pilot program's feasibility and impact to the legislature before the 2027 regular session, and funds will be appropriated from the broadband and digital equity special fund to support the program's implementation. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2050.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1061&year=2026