HI SB3282

Establishes a statewide framework for implementing the federal Workforce Pell Grant Program, which provides financial aid for short-term workforce education and training programs lasting 8-15 weeks (150-599 clock hours) in high-demand, high-wage occupations.

Creates a Workforce Pell Grant Program Approval Committee within the Workforce Development Council, composed of representatives from the Department of Labor, University of Hawaii, Department of Education, and employer representatives to authorize eligible programs.

Requires participating institutions to meet student protection standards including reasonable tuition disclosure, no private education loans or income-share agreements, publicly posted program information, and at least one year of program operation before authorization.

Mandates the University of Hawaii develop stackable credential pathways linking short-term workforce credentials to higher-level certificates and degrees, with annual publication of pathway maps by industry sector.

Authorizes data sharing between the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and University of Hawaii for wage record tracking, with annual outcomes reporting on enrollment, completion, job placement, and earnings; effective January 1, 2077.