HI HB1613

Establishes a tuition waiver program for community college students who are U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens, have been state residents for at least 12 months, and are high school graduates under age 26 maintaining full-time enrollment and satisfactory academic progress.

Defines "eligible non-citizens" as permanent residents, conditional permanent residents, and holders of an Arrival-Departure Record showing refugee, asylum, parolee, or Cuban-Haitian Entrant status.

Implements the waiver program as a pilot in counties with populations under 100,000 beginning fall 2017, with additional requirements including two-year county residency, two years of high school attendance, and completion of a Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

Requires the board of regents to submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the legislature at least 20 days before the 2019 regular session convening.

Takes effect July 1, 2525.