HI HCR13

Urges the Department of Education to develop and implement an affirmative action program to recruit and employ qualified blind professionals as orientation and mobility instructors and teachers of visually impaired students.

Recognizes that the National Orientation and Mobility Certification (NOMC) credential, which emphasizes the Structured Discovery Cane Travel method and employs blind instructors, has not resulted in significant employment increases for blind professionals in the Department of Education despite being accepted by the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board.

Notes that the Department of Education historically only accepted the Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) credential, which emphasizes vision-centered services and non-blind instructors, limiting employment opportunities for qualified blind persons.

Requires the Superintendent of Education to submit a report to the Legislature no later than thirty days before the 2023 Regular Session detailing findings, recommendations, actions taken, progress made, and any proposed legislation regarding recruitment and employment of blind professionals.

Directs transmittal of the resolution to the Superintendent of Education, Hawaii Teacher Standards Board, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation services, and organizations representing blind professionals and persons.