Bill > SB1274

This bill establishes a Teacher Workforce Housing Stipend Program to support teacher retention in rural and underserved public and charter schools in Hawaii. The program will provide eligible full-time teachers who do not own a residence within commuting distance of their school with a $1,000 monthly stipend that can only be used for rent, mortgage payments, or utilities. To qualify, teachers must work in a designated rural or underserved area and commit to teaching in that location for a minimum of three years. Participants will be required to submit annual documentation verifying their use of the housing stipend. If a recipient fails to meet the work requirements, they will be required to repay the total amount of stipend funds received as a loan. The Department of Education will administer the program and must submit a report to the legislature every two years beginning in 2027, detailing findings and recommendations. The bill includes an appropriation of funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to establish and administer the program, with the stipend program set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1274&year=2026