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Bill

HR 102

REQUESTING THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII BOARD OF REGENTS TO REVIEW AND REFINE THE OPERATIONAL MISSIONS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII'S FOUR-YEAR INSTITUTIONS TO ENSURE THAT EACH CAMPUS FULFILLS A DISTINCT AND COMPLEMENTARY ROLE IN SERVING STUDENTS AND THE STATE.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 3 co-sponsors

Directs University of Hawaii Board of Regents to review and clarify distinct operational missions for each of four university campuses to improve system efficiency and service coordination.

Reported from FIN (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1941-26), recommending adoption.
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Bill Summary · HR 102

Legislative bill overview

HR 102 is a request resolution that directs the University of Hawaii Board of Regents to review and clarify the operational missions of the university system's four-year institutions (Manoa, Hilo, West Oahu, and Maui campuses). The goal is to ensure each campus has a distinct, complementary role rather than duplicative functions, and that all serve both students and state workforce needs effectively.

Why is this important

University mission clarity directly affects resource allocation, student outcomes, and economic development. Without distinct roles, campuses may compete inefficiently, duplicate expensive programs, or fail to meet specific regional or workforce needs. This review could improve system efficiency and ensure taxpayer dollars are used effectively across Hawaii's higher education network.

Potential points of contention

  • Resource reallocation concerns: Defining distinct missions may require consolidating or eliminating programs at certain campuses, potentially affecting faculty jobs and student access to specific degrees
  • Regional equity: Determining which campuses serve which roles could disadvantage rural or neighbor island communities if programs are concentrated on Oahu (Manoa campus)
  • Implementation ambiguity: The resolution requests a review but provides no timeline, enforcement mechanism, or mandatory adoption of recommendations, limiting its practical impact

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

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