H.B. 1826 Summary

• Appropriates funds to University of Hawaii Windward Community College to support statewide expansion of mental health-related educational programs, including entry-level mental health technician certificates and stackable degree pathways.

• Establishes one temporary full-time faculty instructor position to develop and administer curriculum for mental health programs.

• Establishes one temporary full-time faculty outreach position to onboard new cohorts, grant scholarships, and handle administrative tasks.

• Creates a scholarship program to increase access for unemployed, underemployed, low-wage earners, and others pursuing mental health career pathways.

• Declares that the appropriation exceeds the state general fund expenditure ceiling for fiscal year 2024-2025 and takes effect July 1, 3000.