Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Conduct A Study On The Economic Impacts Of Domestic Out-of-state Students.
The economic insights generated from this study could have significant implications for state laws and policies regarding education and economic development. By understanding the contributions of out-of-state students, lawmakers might be inclined to adjust funding and resources allocated to educational institutions, enhancing their capacity to attract and retain both domestic and international students. The outcome could potentially influence legislative actions focused on education reform, economic incentives, and investment in local job markets.
House Resolution 76 (HR76) addresses the economic impact of domestic out-of-state students in Hawaii. Recognizing Hawaii's reliance on tourism and education, the resolution calls upon the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to conduct a comprehensive study similar to a previous report on international students. This study aims to quantify the financial contributions of domestic out-of-state students across various educational contexts, including four-year and two-year degree programs, as well as short-term studies. The urgency of this study arises as Hawaii seeks to diversify its economy and secure a robust future for local industries.
General sentiment towards HR76 appears supportive, particularly among stakeholders in the education and economic sectors who recognize the value of understanding the economic contributions of students coming from outside Hawaii. The resolution advances a collaborative approach aimed at enhancing economic growth through education, which is generally perceived as a beneficial strategy for the state. However, the resolution’s success hinges on the execution of the proposed study and the willingness of lawmakers to act on its findings.
Although HR76 received unanimous support in committee, some may argue regarding the prioritization of resource allocation for the study over other pressing educational issues within the state. There may be concerns about whether the findings will lead to legislative measures that effectively address the local community's needs versus merely promoting an influx of students for financial gain. Nonetheless, the promise of potential economic benefits from out-of-state student education expenditure is a central point of agreement among supporters.