S.R. No. 124 Summary

• Urges the Department of Education to develop a program supporting Hawaiian language use among children under age five and promoting fluency in prekindergarten-aged children

• Requires the Department of Education to consult with the Department of Human Services, Hawaiian language immersion schools, University of Hawaii System, Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Kamehameha Schools, and other entities deemed necessary by the Superintendent

• Directs the Department of Education to submit a written report to the Legislature with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation no later than twenty days before the 2014 Regular Session convening

• Identifies that fluent Native Hawaiian speakers comprise approximately 0.1 percent of Hawaii's population and notes that early childhood language introduction is essential for bilingual retention