H.R. 85 Summary

• Requests the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to evaluate the potential impacts of mandating licensure for all private schools in Hawaii.

• Notes that private school licensing and accreditation are currently voluntary, with only registration (charter and general excise tax license) required to operate.

• References Act 188 (1995) which transferred private school licensing responsibility from the Department of Education to the Hawaii Council of Private Schools, establishing a voluntary self-regulation system.

• Requires the Department to submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2019 Regular Session convenes.

• Directs certified copies be sent to the Directors of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Superintendent of Education, and executives of the Hawaii Council of Private Schools and Hawaii Association of Independent Schools.