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HB 1873

RELATING TO THE BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 5 co-sponsors

HB 1873 modifies University of Hawaii Board of Regents governance; advanced through committee with amendments pending further legislative review and consideration.

The committee on JHA recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 5 Ayes: Representative(s) Tarnas, Kahaloa, Takayama; Ayes with reservations: Representative(s) Poepoe, Shimizu; 2 Noes: Representative(s) Cochran, Garcia; and 3 Excused: Representative(s) Belatti, Hashem, Sayama.
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Bill Summary · HB 1873

Legislative bill overview

HB 1873 relates to governance and operations of the University of Hawaii's Board of Regents, though the specific provisions are not detailed in the available action summary. The bill was introduced in January 2026 and advanced through the House Education Committee with recommended amendments in early February 2026. It is scheduled for further consideration by additional committees (JHA) before potential full chamber debate.

Why is this important

The Board of Regents oversees Hawaii's public university system, making governance changes potentially significant for institutional autonomy, fiscal management, student affairs, and academic policy. How the Board operates directly affects tuition rates, hiring practices, curriculum decisions, and the university's strategic direction, ultimately impacting students, faculty, and Hawaii's workforce development.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of amendments unclear — The committee recommended amendments without public disclosure of their specific content, making it difficult to assess what aspects of Board governance are being modified and whether stakeholders support these changes.
  • Balance of institutional autonomy vs. legislative oversight — Any changes to Board authority could shift power between the university system and the legislature, raising questions about appropriate governance boundaries.
  • Stakeholder representation — Depending on provisions, the bill may affect how students, faculty, and community members have voice in Board decisions, or how Board composition is determined.

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

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