HI SCR187

Encourages the Department of Education to establish a pilot youth development flag rugby program targeting Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander youth in the Nanakuli-Waianae, Kau-Keaau-Pahoa, and Castle-Kahuku Complex Areas to reduce risky behaviors and incarceration rates.

Requests the pilot program be implemented at middle and intermediate schools with interschool and intramural leagues open to all students regardless of background.

Authorizes the Department of Education to partner with After-School All-Stars Hawaii, Play Rugby USA, New Zealand Consulate General, Department of Health, Department of Human Services, Hawaii State Judiciary, Office of Youth Services, Office of Hawaiian Affairs, and other agencies for program facilitation.

Requires the Department of Education to determine program costs, identify funding sources, and compile qualitative and quantitative data measuring the pilot program's impact on Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander youth.

Requests expansion of the flag rugby program statewide to interested middle and intermediate schools following successful pilot implementation.