HB617 appropriates state general funds to establish a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program at the University of Hawaii Maui College. The bill is based on legislative findings that Hawaii is facing a nursing workforce shortage and that Maui is the largest county in the state without a local BSN program. It states that creating a BSN pathway on Maui would help increase the number of nursing graduates and allow Maui students to complete their nursing education without leaving the island.
The measure provides funding for several startup and operating needs tied to the new program, including increased demand for prerequisite courses, additional personnel, supplies and equipment, and simulation and laboratory upgrades. It also includes funding for instructional costs associated with the third year of nursing coursework once the program is established. The bill declares the program a matter of statewide concern and is framed as an investment in workforce development and higher education access.
Impact
If enacted, HB617 would create new appropriations from the state general fund for the University of Hawaii to launch and support a BSN program at UH Maui College. It would not amend existing nursing licensure laws, but it would affect state higher education funding and the University of Hawaii’s program offerings, staffing, and facilities. The practical effect would be to expand nursing education capacity on Maui and potentially increase the pipeline of registered nurses entering the Hawaii workforce.
Sentiment
The bill appears generally favorable and solution-oriented, with its findings emphasizing an urgent workforce shortage and the benefits of local access to nursing education. No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of opposition or debate in the available materials. The overall tone of the bill is supportive of expanding educational opportunity and addressing a statewide labor need.
Contention
The main potential point of contention is fiscal: the bill requires multiple appropriations for personnel, equipment, laboratory upgrades, and instructional costs, which may raise budget concerns even though the dollar amounts are left blank in the text. Another possible issue is whether the state should prioritize a Maui-based BSN program over other workforce or higher education needs. No specific objections, amendments, or opposing viewpoints are included in the provided record.
Urging The University Of Hawaii President And Board Of Regents To Establish A Bachelor Of Science In Nursing Program At The University Of Hawaii Maui Campus.
Urging The University Of Hawaii President And Board Of Regents To Establish A Bachelor Of Science In Nursing Program At The University Of Hawaii Maui Campus.
Urging The University Of Hawaii President And Board Of Regents To Establish A Bachelor Of Science In Nursing Program At The University Of Hawaii Maui College.
Urging The University Of Hawaii President And Board Of Regents To Establish A Bachelor Of Science In Nursing Program At The University Of Hawaii Maui Campus.