HI HCR184

Requests the Legislative Reference Bureau to conduct a feasibility study on establishing a guaranteed universal basic income program for working families in Hawaii, in consultation with the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism; Department of Human Services; and University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization.

Study must examine potential program structures, eligibility criteria for working families, estimated costs, and possible funding sources.

Study must analyze potential impacts on poverty reduction, economic stability, and workforce participation, as well as lessons learned from guaranteed income pilot programs in other states and municipalities.

Report with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation is due no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2027.

Builds on prior efforts from 2017 when the Legislature established a Basic Economic Security Working Group that examined universal basic income concepts but did not result in a pilot program or comprehensive feasibility study.