Bill > HB1443

This bill establishes a high school law enforcement curriculum-to-career pipeline initiative within Hawaii's Department of Education, designed to provide students with structured pathways into law enforcement careers. The initiative requires collaboration between the Department of Education, law enforcement departments, and local police to develop specific training and education programs that help students transition into post-secondary education and law enforcement careers. The program will offer several key components: 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 for courses in criminal justice-related fields. Students can earn high school credits through these programs while gaining practical experience and exposure to law enforcement careers. The bill includes an appropriation of funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to develop and implement the initiative, with the goal of creating a structured pathway for high school students interested in pursuing law enforcement careers. The program will take effect on July 1, 2025, and the Department of Education will be responsible for adopting specific rules to implement the initiative.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1443&year=2026