Bill > HB763

This bill establishes the Hawaii Civic Education Trust Fund to support and improve civic education in public schools, addressing the state's low voter turnout and the need to develop students' critical thinking and democratic participation skills. The trust fund will be administered by the Department of Education and can receive contributions from public and private sources, with funds to be used for activities such as raising awareness, allocating resources for civic education programs, supporting professional development for teachers, and providing classroom resources related to social studies. The bill appropriates funds for expanding civic education in public schools during fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, including funding for full-time equivalent permanent civic education resource teacher positions. The legislation is motivated by Hawaii's low voter participation rates and the belief that comprehensive civic education can help students develop the skills necessary to understand and engage in democratic processes, including recognizing social problems, evaluating solutions, distinguishing evidence-based claims from opinions, and taking informed action.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=763&year=2025