HI SR49

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, and evaluation mechanisms.

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

Application requirements include online application, personal statement on commitment to serving the State, resume, three references, two letters of recommendation, and college transcripts.

Requires Department of Human Resources Development to submit a status report to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the 2026 Regular Session detailing number of applicants and participants, key accomplishments, and program budget and expenditures.