Bill > SB3282

This bill establishes a statewide framework for Hawaii to implement the federal Workforce Pell Grant Program, which provides financial aid for certain short-term education and training programs designed to prepare individuals for in-demand and high-wage jobs. It creates a Workforce Pell Grant Program Approval Committee within the Workforce Development Council to review and approve eligible programs, defining terms like "high-wage occupation" and "in-demand industry sector or occupation" and requiring that approved programs lead to "stackable credentials," which are recognized qualifications that can build towards higher degrees within the University of Hawaii system. The bill also mandates secure data sharing and outcomes reporting to ensure accountability and student protection, and authorizes the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to create necessary rules for the program's implementation, with the entire framework set to take effect on January 1, 2077.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=3282&year=2026