Bill > SB3158

This bill amends the Hawaii Community College Promise Program, often referred to as "Hawaii Promise," to ensure that grants, scholarships, and other financial aid students receive are not subtracted from the amount they are eligible to receive from Hawaii Promise. Previously, these other funding sources reduced the Hawaii Promise award, meaning students couldn't use them for living expenses like housing and food. By excluding these other funds from the calculation, students can now apply them to indirect costs, thereby reducing financial barriers to education and supporting their success. The bill also updates the program to align with changes in federal law, particularly regarding Pell Grants, and redefines "direct cost" to include tuition, fees, books, and supplies, while removing transportation costs from this definition. This change effectively shifts Hawaii Promise from being a "last-dollar" award, which covered remaining costs after other aid, to a program that allows students to maximize all available financial assistance for their educational needs. The changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=3158&year=2026