HI HB1591

Establishes the Hawaii Promise Program administered by the University of Hawaii Board of Regents to provide scholarships covering unmet direct costs for qualified students at University of Hawaii community colleges.

Eligible students must be Hawaii residents, complete the FAFSA and accept all available federal and state aid, be enrolled in a degree or certificate program with at least six credits per semester, and maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Scholarships awarded on a first-come, first-served basis in amounts equal to a student's unmet direct cost need (tuition, fees, books, supplies, and transportation) minus Pell grants and other scholarships.

Appropriates funds for fiscal years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 to establish and implement the program and provide scholarships (specific amount left blank in bill).

Takes effect July 1, 2050.