HI SB2020

Appropriates general fund revenues for fiscal year 2026-2027 to the University of Hawaii Institute for Astronomy's Space Science and Engineering Initiative Workforce Development Program.

Funds three full-time equivalent positions: a workforce development program manager, a Maunakea Scholars program coordinator, and an administrative clerk.

Provides funding for office equipment, supplies, operational costs, and internship stipends for high school and college students pursuing STEM careers.

Supports expansion of existing programs including the Maunakea Scholars program (which has served over 1,200 students since 2016) and the Waipahu High School observatory serving 10 public high schools.

Leverages Hawaii's observatory facilities on Maunakea and Haleakala (valued at over $1 billion, generating $200 million annually) to create kindergarten-to-career pathways in space sciences and engineering.