HI HCR169

Requests the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and Workforce Development Council to establish a task force to conduct a comprehensive study of Hawaii's current education and workforce development programs.

Task force must identify strategies to locate industries with worker shortages, enhance recruitment and retention, expand work-based learning opportunities for adults and youth, and close the digital divide for disconnected residents.

Task force must study existing education and workplace development programs serving target populations, examine pathways for obtaining in-demand occupational licenses, and ensure English language learners have access to job training and employment support.

Task force must identify strategies to coordinate programs to maximize participation for employers and employees, and provide recommendations on enhancing effective workforce development programs and addressing identified needs of target populations.

Task force must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the start of the 2025 Regular Session.