SB 327 Summary

• Creates an on-the-job training work experience program administered by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations allowing contracts with private sector employers and registered apprenticeship programs to provide internships to eligible students and recent graduates.

• Provides state reimbursement to employers of up to $20.00 per hour for wages only, with employers required to contribute 50 percent cost-sharing for private sector positions.

• Establishes eligibility requirements for interns (age 16+, Hawaii resident, high school or college enrolled/graduated within one year, criminal background check) and for employers (minimum $20.00 hourly wage, mentor provision, no worker displacement, safety compliance).

• Limits internships to 12 weeks for college/university students (extendable to 24 weeks) and 6 weeks for high school students (extendable to 14 weeks during summer), with maximum 30 hours weekly for high school and 40 hours for college students.

• Designates the State as the responsible employer for workers' compensation coverage purposes and requires the Department to submit annual reports to the legislature on program outcomes, enrollment numbers, and progress.