HI HB253

Establishes the instructional office of Hawaiian studies within the Department of Education to provide instruction to public school students on Hawaiian history, culture, arts, and language.

The office shall have direct oversight and responsibility for all components of the Hawaiian education program established under article X, section 4 of the Hawaii State Constitution and the Hawaiian language medium education program under chapter 302H.

The office may assist public charter schools in providing instruction on Hawaiian history, culture, arts, and language if these topics are part of the charter school's curriculum.

Requires the instructional office of Hawaiian studies, Hawaiian education program, and Hawaiian language medium education program to be separate budget line items in biennial and supplemental state budgets.

Appropriates an unspecified amount from general revenues for fiscal years 2013-2014 and 2014-2015 for the instructional office to carry out its duties, effective July 1, 2013.