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Bill Summary · HB 100

Legislative bill overview

HB 100 addresses media literacy in Hawaii, though the full text isn't provided in your summary. Based on the committee referrals (Education and Finance), the bill likely proposes curriculum requirements, funding mechanisms, or educational initiatives to teach students how to critically evaluate media sources and identify misinformation. The bill was introduced in January 2025 and carried over to the 2026 session, suggesting it did not advance to passage in the 2025 session.

Why is this important

Media literacy directly affects how citizens evaluate information during elections, public health crises, and policy debates. As misinformation spreads rapidly online, schools teaching these skills can help students—and by extension, communities—make more informed decisions. Hawaii joining other states with formal media literacy programs would position the state as proactive on this increasingly recognized educational need.

Potential points of contention

  • Curriculum design and content: Disagreement over what constitutes "media literacy" and whether instruction should include analysis of political messaging or remain strictly technical
  • Funding and implementation costs: Education and Finance committees both received referral, suggesting budget concerns about training teachers and developing materials
  • Parental/community concerns: Some may view media literacy curricula as government overreach into how families discuss information sources and trust

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

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