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HB 542

RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII PROMISE PROGRAM.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Andrew Garrett and 5 co-sponsors

HB 542 establishes a University of Hawaii Promise Program to increase higher education access and affordability for eligible Hawaii residents attending UH institutions.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 542

Legislative bill overview

HB 542 establishes or modifies the University of Hawaii Promise Program, which appears designed to increase educational access and affordability for Hawaii residents attending UH institutions. The bill has advanced through initial legislative stages but was carried over to the 2026 session, indicating it requires further committee review and deliberation.

Why is this important

Promise programs typically remove financial barriers to higher education for eligible students, which can increase college completion rates and reduce student debt burdens. For Hawaii, this could affect workforce development, economic mobility, and the state's ability to retain talent in key sectors.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism: The bill's specific funding source isn't detailed in available information; legislators may debate whether it requires new appropriations, reallocation of existing UH funds, or revenue generation through other means
  • Eligibility criteria: Disagreement may exist over who qualifies (income thresholds, GPA requirements, residency duration), potentially affecting program scope and cost
  • Implementation scope: Questions about which UH campuses participate, whether it covers tuition only or broader costs (housing, books), and how it coordinates with existing financial aid programs

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

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