HI HR161

Encourages Hawaii's colleges and universities to teach objective, fact-based reporting and restore public confidence in journalism as an independent watchdog rather than a partisan actor.

Calls for curricula that teach future journalists to avoid personal commentary, emotionalism, polemics, and partisanship in their reporting.

Expresses concern that journalism curricula have been diluted and that contemporary graduates may be inadequately prepared to report on important topics competently.

Warns that current journalistic trends could lead to "Truth Decay" (as identified by the RAND Corporation), which erodes civil discourse and public engagement in civic life.

Directs certified copies be transmitted to the Governor, State Senate President, State Board of Education, University of Hawaii Board of Regents, community college chancellors, and private universities including Hawaii Pacific University, Chaminade University, and Brigham Young University.