Bill > SCR64

This concurrent resolution requests the Department of Human Resources Development (DHRD) to establish the Hawaii State Fellows Program as a strategic response to the state's public employment challenges, including a 24% vacancy rate and potential 31% retirement rate within five years. The proposed program would create full-time, paid fellowship positions for recent college graduates across various state agencies, offering a ten to eleven-month opportunity to work on public policy projects, develop professional skills, and potentially address workforce recruitment and retention issues. The resolution outlines specific program requirements, including eligibility criteria such as having a bachelor's degree, maintaining a 2.5 GPA, being at least 20 years old, and authorized to work in the United States. Applicants would need to submit a comprehensive application including a personal statement, resume, references, and transcripts, with preference given to candidates with pre-existing ties to Hawaii or demonstrated commitment to state leadership. The program would incorporate career development training, mentorship, and evaluation mechanisms, with DHRD requested to coordinate fellowship roles, establish administrative procedures, promote the program, and submit a detailed report to the Legislature before the 2026 Regular Session, covering participant numbers, accomplishments, and program expenditures.

Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SCR&billnumber=64&year=2025