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HB 440

Providing Effective Access to Cannabis for Health (PEACH) Act; enact

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kasey Carpenter and 5 co-sponsors

Bill HB 440 ensures immigrant students in Hawaii access education and public services without discrimination, protecting their rights regardless of immigration status.

House Second Readers
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 440

Summary of Bill HB 440: Relating to Immigration

Overview

Bill HB 440, introduced on January 17, 2025, addresses issues related to immigration, particularly in the context of education and public services in Hawaii. The bill aims to clarify the rights and protections of individuals regarding their immigration status, especially in relation to charter schools and public schools.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 440 is to ensure that immigration status does not hinder access to educational opportunities and public services for residents of Hawaii. The bill seeks to establish guidelines that protect the rights of students and families, regardless of their citizenship status, thereby promoting inclusivity and due process.

Key Provisions

While the specific text of the bill is not provided, the following key areas are likely to be addressed based on the subject matter:

  • Access to Education: The bill may include provisions that prohibit discrimination against students based on their immigration status, ensuring that all children have the right to attend public and charter schools.

  • Due Process Protections: It may establish due process rights for individuals facing immigration enforcement actions, particularly in educational settings.

  • Collaboration with Local Agencies: The bill could outline the responsibilities of local educational agencies and health systems in relation to immigration enforcement, potentially limiting the role of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in schools.

  • Support for Filipino Community: Given the mention of the Filipino Caucus, the bill may include specific provisions aimed at supporting the Filipino community in Hawaii, which has a significant immigrant population.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Students and Families: The bill primarily impacts students and their families, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, ensuring they have access to education without fear of discrimination or deportation.

  • Educational Institutions: Public schools and charter schools would need to adapt their policies to comply with the provisions of the bill.

  • Local Government and Health Systems: Agencies involved in education and health services may need to implement new protocols regarding immigration status inquiries and enforcement actions.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 17, 2025: Bill introduced and passed its first reading.
  • January 21, 2025: Referred to the Education and Health Committee (EDN/HLT), Economic Development Committee (ECD), and Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee (JHA).
  • January 27, 2025: Re-referred to EDN/HLT and JHA.
  • January 28, 2025: Scheduled for a hearing on January 30, 2025.
  • January 29, 2025: Deleted from the meeting scheduled for January 30, 2025.

Related Bills

  • SB 818: This is a companion bill that may address similar issues regarding immigration and education.

Conclusion

Bill HB 440 represents an effort to protect the rights of immigrant students and families in Hawaii, ensuring that immigration status does not impede access to education and public services. The bill's progress will be closely monitored, especially given its recent deletion from the scheduled hearing, which may indicate further deliberation or revision is needed before it can advance in the legislative process.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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