Bill > HB1196

This bill establishes a high school law enforcement curriculum-to-career pipeline initiative designed to help students explore careers in law enforcement while earning high school credits. The initiative, to be developed by the Department of Education in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies, will offer several specific programs: an elective training and mentorship program with community police officers similar to the Honolulu Police Department's Law Enforcement Explorers Program, an age-appropriate version of the Citizens Police Academy, opportunities for students to assist school resource officers, and a dual credit program with the University of Hawaii and its Community Colleges in criminal justice-related courses. The primary goal is to enable students to gain qualified experiences in law enforcement, earn school credits, and potentially create a pathway to future careers in the field. The bill includes an appropriation of funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to develop and implement the program, and it is set to take effect on July 1, 2025. The department is required to adopt rules to implement the initiative and develop a curriculum that facilitates transitions into post-secondary education and law enforcement training programs.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1196&year=2025