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Bill

SB 3161

RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 3161 addresses unspecified University of Hawaii matters; currently in committee review for potential budgetary or operational implications.

Referred to WAM.
#universityofhawaii
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Bill Summary · SB 3161

Legislative bill overview

SB 3161 is a Hawaii bill currently in early legislative stages that relates to the University of Hawaii system. The bill was introduced on January 28, 2026, and passed first reading before being referred to the Ways and Means Committee on February 2, 2026. Without access to the bill's specific provisions, the exact nature of the proposed changes cannot be determined from the action timeline alone.

Why is this important

The University of Hawaii serves as the state's primary public higher education institution, affecting thousands of students, faculty, and the broader Hawaii economy. Legislation relating to the university typically addresses funding, operations, governance, tuition, or academic programs—all matters with significant public interest and fiscal implications for the state budget.

Potential points of contention

  • Budgetary impact: The bill's referral to the Ways and Means Committee suggests potential fiscal implications that may compete with other state spending priorities
  • Stakeholder concerns: Changes to university operations could affect students (tuition/fees), faculty (employment/benefits), or administrative structure, each with different constituencies
  • Implementation scope: The breadth of "relating to the University of Hawaii" is vague and could encompass minor administrative adjustments or substantive systemic changes requiring careful scrutiny

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

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