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Bill

HB 2416

RELATING TO A MARITIME YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP PATHWAY PROGRAM.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 15 co-sponsors

Hawaii establishes maritime youth apprenticeship program combining classroom and hands-on training to develop skilled workforce for state's maritime industry and provide career pathways for youth.

Pending introduction.
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Bill Summary · HB 2416

Legislative bill overview

HB 2416 establishes a maritime youth apprenticeship pathway program in Hawaii, designed to create educational and employment opportunities for young people interested in maritime careers. The bill would develop structured training programs combining classroom instruction with hands-on apprenticeship experience in Hawaii's maritime industry.

Why is this important

Hawaii's economy depends heavily on maritime commerce, fishing, and shipping, yet faces workforce shortages in skilled maritime positions. Creating apprenticeship pathways addresses both workforce development needs and provides career alternatives to traditional four-year college routes for Hawaii's youth.

Potential points of contention

  • Program funding and costs: The bill's financial requirements and whether state resources should subsidize maritime industry workforce training
  • Industry participation commitments: Questions about whether maritime employers will meaningfully participate and hire apprenticeship graduates, or if the program creates training without guaranteed employment
  • Curriculum standards and oversight: Determining who sets training standards, ensures quality, and maintains accountability across potentially multiple participating organizations
  • Equity and access: Whether the program will be genuinely accessible to underrepresented communities or primarily benefit students with existing maritime connections

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

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