HI HCR129

Convenes a task force to study the feasibility of establishing a pay forward, pay back program at the University of Hawaii to replace or supplement current tuition and fees charges.

Task force to be chaired by the Interim President of the University of Hawaii and comprised of nine members including University of Hawaii student leaders, state education and finance officials, and legislative committee chairs.

Pay forward, pay back program model is based on Oregon's pilot program where graduates contribute earnings to a state trust fund that finances future students' post-secondary education instead of charging traditional tuition.

Task force must submit written findings, recommendations, proposed pilot program details, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2015 Regular Session convenes.

Resolution addresses rising college tuition costs and student loan debt burden, with federal student loan debt exceeding $1 trillion as of 2013 and two-thirds of college graduates carrying some debt.