HI HB1638

Appropriates $1,167,000 from general revenues for fiscal year 2018-2019 to continue and expand health care apprenticeship programs at University of Hawaii community colleges.

Establishes that apprenticeship programs combine on-the-job training (work process) with structured classroom and laboratory instruction (related instruction), with completion hours applicable toward associate degrees.

Recognizes the positive impact of community health workers as documented in research and their role in reducing homelessness in Hawaii.

Directs the University of Hawaii to expend appropriated funds for purposes of expanding health care apprenticeships, including roles such as community health workers, pharmacy technicians, and optometry assistants.

Takes effect on July 1, 3000 (contains apparent drafting error in effective date).