HI HCR203

Requests the Legislative Reference Bureau to convene a task force to study student loan debt relief and make recommendations, including proposed policies and legislation, to ease the burden on Hawaii residents.

Task force comprises 3 House members, 3 Senate members, 2 attorneys specializing in student loans, a consumer advocacy group representative, and a lender/banking advocacy group representative.

Task force shall study the economic impact of student loan debt on individuals and families, private lending programs, feasibility of state-run loan refinancing for borrowers with lower credit scores, loan repayment assistance for high-need professions, and tax relief programs.

Task force shall also examine how findings from a February 2018 Levy Economics Institute report on student debt cancellation apply to Hawaii's economy.

Task force must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature at least 20 days before the 2019 Regular Session convenes, with the Legislative Reference Bureau providing staff support.