H.C.R. 98 Summary

• Requests the Department of Human Resources Development establish the Hawaii State Fellows Program to address a 24% public employment vacancy rate and 31% of state employees eligible to retire within five years.

• Program shall offer full-time, paid fellowship positions for 10-11 months in various state agencies, including career development training, mentorship structure, and evaluation mechanisms.

• Establishes eligibility requirements including bachelor's degree completion by September 1, minimum 2.5 GPA, age 20 or older, full-time employment capability, and U.S. work authorization (excludes applicants requiring F-1, J-1, or E-Verify visas).

• Application requirements include online application, personal statement, resume, three references, two recommendation letters, and college transcripts.

• Department must submit a report to the Legislature by 20 days before the 2026 Regular Session covering number of applicants and participants, key accomplishments, and program budget and expenditures.