WeVote

Bill

Bill

HB 1071

RELATING TO COMPUTER SCIENCE LEGISLATIVE REPORT.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nadine Nakamura

Hawaii requires the Department of Education to report on computer science education availability, teacher capacity, and student participation to inform future policy decisions on tech workforce development.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1071

Legislative bill overview

HB 1071 requires the Hawaii legislature to receive a comprehensive report on computer science education in the state's public schools. The bill directs the Department of Education to assess current computer science curriculum offerings, teacher qualifications, student participation rates, and barriers to implementation across all grade levels.

Why is this important

Computer science literacy has become increasingly critical for workforce development and economic competitiveness. Hawaii's tech sector and broader economy depend on a pipeline of trained workers, making understanding the current state of computer science education essential for informed policy decisions about educational investment and standards.

Potential points of contention

  • Resource allocation concerns: Schools may lack funding, qualified teachers, and equipment to expand computer science programs, raising questions about whether the report will lead to meaningful implementation or remain an unfunded mandate
  • Equity and access gaps: Rural and underfunded schools may face greater challenges offering computer science courses, potentially widening educational disparities that the report could expose without clear solutions
  • Teacher shortage reality: Hawaii faces a competitive job market for tech-skilled educators; the report may highlight a shortage that's difficult to remedy without significant salary adjustments or recruitment initiatives

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

Sign in to ask a question.