HI SB3158

Amends the Hawaii Community College Promise Program to exclude grants, scholarships, and other funding sources from the calculation of award amounts, allowing students to use those funds for indirect costs like housing, food, and living expenses.

Removes transportation costs from the definition of "direct cost" while retaining tuition, fees, books, and supplies as covered expenses.

Allows the program to coordinate with federal student aid programs to maximize total financial assistance, with provisions ensuring state assistance does not conflict with federal financial aid regulations or jeopardize federal aid eligibility.

Maintains existing eligibility requirements including Hawaii residency, enrollment in six or more credits per semester, satisfactory academic progress, and completion of FAFSA for up to eight semesters maximum.

Takes effect on July 1, 2026.