HI HB2707

Establishes a behavioral health social worker scholarship program administered by the University of Hawaii to cover tuition and fees for students pursuing licensure under chapter 467E (social work licensing).

Recipients must commit to five years of service with the Department of Human Services, Department of Health, Department of Public Safety, Judiciary, or contracted service providers in psychiatric, mental health, or behavioral health social work areas.

Recipients who fail to maintain satisfactory academic progress or do not complete the five-year service commitment must repay the full scholarship amount to the University of Hawaii.

University of Hawaii, in collaboration with the Department of Human Services, shall determine the number of annual scholarships awarded based on fund availability and establish policies for application procedures, eligibility requirements, and scholarship award standards.

Appropriates unspecified general revenue funds for fiscal year 2020-2021 to implement the program; takes effect on December 31, 2059.