Bill > HB1211

This bill establishes a state internship and workforce development program within the Department of Human Resources Development to address workforce shortages in state government and provide work opportunities for residents. The program will offer paid internships ranging from 89 days to 12 months, prioritizing departments with significant staffing needs. Eligible participants must be Hawaii residents aged 18 or older, and will be selected based on academic achievement, interest in public service, and alignment with departmental needs. Interns will receive a stipend or hourly wage, professional development opportunities, and priority consideration for full-time employment. Participating state agencies must provide meaningful work experiences, supervision, and mentorship, and demonstrate the potential to employ interns after the program. The Department of Human Resources Development will develop standardized guidelines, ensure internship experiences qualify participants for similar positions, and collaborate with agencies to create career pathways. Each coordinating agency must develop performance metrics, track intern performance and retention, and submit annual reports to the legislature. The program will be funded through annual legislative appropriations, with participating departments contributing a portion of the program costs based on the number of interns placed.

Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1211&year=2026