Bill > HB1780

This bill, titled the "Hawaii Free School Bus Access for Low-income Students Act," mandates that the Department of Education establish a student bus fare rate system that includes free bus passes for students who meet specific eligibility requirements, particularly those qualifying for free or reduced-price lunches under the National School Lunch Program (often referred to as the "free and reduced price lunch program"). The bill aims to address transportation barriers faced by low-income families, ensuring more equitable access to education by streamlining the application process for free bus passes, improving communication about eligibility and timelines, and prioritizing these students for available bus seats. The Department of Education will be required to submit an annual report to the Legislature detailing the number of students receiving free passes, the funds expended, and the procedures for identifying and prioritizing eligible students. An appropriation is also included to fund the provision of these free bus passes.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1780&year=2026