WeVote

Bill

Bill

SB 1604

RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

Bill SB 1604 boosts housing for students and faculty at Kauai Community College, ensuring affordable options to support education and local workforce development.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1604

Summary of Bill SB 1604: Relating to the University of Hawaii

Purpose and Intent

Bill SB 1604 aims to address critical issues related to housing and workforce development within the University of Hawaii system, specifically focusing on Kauai Community College. The bill seeks to allocate appropriations to enhance housing availability for students and faculty, thereby supporting educational and workforce initiatives in the region.

Key Provisions

  • Appropriations: The bill includes provisions for financial appropriations aimed at improving housing infrastructure associated with the University of Hawaii, particularly for Kauai Community College.
  • Workforce Housing: The legislation emphasizes the need for workforce housing solutions to support students and staff, ensuring that affordable living options are available in proximity to educational institutions.
  • Amendments: The bill has been reported with amendments (SD 1), which may include specific adjustments to the funding amounts or the scope of housing projects.

Affected Parties

  • Students and Faculty: The primary beneficiaries of this bill will be students and faculty at Kauai Community College, who will gain access to improved housing options.
  • Local Community: The broader Kauai community may also benefit from increased housing availability, which can stimulate local economic growth and development.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 23, 2025
  • First Reading: January 27, 2025
  • Committee Actions:
    • HRE Committee: The bill was referred to the Higher Education Committee (HRE) and the Ways and Means Committee (WAM).
    • Public Hearing: A public hearing was scheduled for February 11, 2025.
    • Report Adoption: On February 13, 2025, the HRE committee adopted the report and recommended the bill for passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1).
  • Next Steps: Following its passage in the HRE committee, the bill has been referred to the WAM committee for further consideration.

Conclusion

Bill SB 1604 represents a significant step towards enhancing housing solutions for students and faculty at Kauai Community College, addressing both educational needs and workforce housing challenges. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final provisions and funding allocations necessary to implement these initiatives effectively.

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

Sign in to ask a question.