HI HB1646

Requires the state auditor to examine the feasibility of mandating human resources licensing or certification for five specific job classifications: human resources officer and specialist in the state executive branch, personnel regional officer in the department of education, and human resources manager and specialist in the university of Hawaii system.

Directs the state auditor to evaluate whether the department of human resources development should compile and oversee a list of accredited human resources programs (including online and virtual options) that could be used for licensure or certification purposes.

Requires the auditor to assess the costs of implementing mandatory licensure or certification, including expenses for employee training (tuition, books, equipment, fees) and operational impacts of completing coursework during work hours.

Mandates the state auditor submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2025 regular session convening.

Appropriates funds from the general revenues for fiscal year 2024-2025 to the state auditor to conduct the feasibility study; takes effect July 1, 2024.