HI SB426

Establishes an Early Learning Apprenticeship Grant Program administered by the University of Hawaii to provide financial support to early learning program service providers participating in state- or federally-approved apprenticeship programs.

Prioritizes grants to early learning providers licensed to care for infants and toddlers and that enroll children under age three.

Grants may cover personnel expenses, wages, training, mentorship stipends, administrative costs, and wage supplements or increases to meet statutory or prevailing industry wage standards, whichever is higher.

Requires the University of Hawaii to submit annual reports to the Legislature detailing the number of providers and apprentices served, total funds awarded, and documentation of how grants were used including wages paid to employees.

Appropriates unspecified funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 for program implementation and administration; effective date is July 31, 2050.