Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR110

Introduced
3/10/23  
Refer
3/15/23  
Report Pass
4/4/23  
Engrossed
4/5/23  
Refer
4/11/23  
Refer
4/13/23  
Report Pass
4/17/23  

Caption

Urging The University Of Hawaii West Oahu To Establish Baccalaureate Degree Programs In Agricultural Technology, Food Science, And Education.

Impact

The bill is poised to have a significant impact on state educational policies by promoting the development of degree programs that meet the needs of the local agricultural sector. The inclusion of agricultural technology and food science in the curriculum can directly contribute to the sustainability of food production in Hawaii. Furthermore, it presents opportunities for students in leeward and central Oahu—areas identified as having a critical need for educational resources—to pursue careers in agriculture and education, thereby addressing the dual issues of workforce decline and educator shortages.

Summary

SCR110, titled 'Urging the University of Hawaii West Oahu to Establish Baccalaureate Degree Programs in Agricultural Technology, Food Science, and Education,' addresses the pressing need for higher educational programs in agricultural and food sciences within the state. This resolution emphasizes that the majority of Hawaii's farmers are nearing retirement, highlighting a potential decline in food production unless new farmers are introduced into the industry. By advocating for the establishment of these programs, SCR110 aims to attract and prepare new generations of farmers equipped with relevant technological knowledge and skills.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SCR110 is largely positive among proponents who believe that enhancing educational offerings in agricultural fields is crucial for both economic sustainability and community growth. There appears to be broad support for diversifying education aimed at addressing local needs, especially in rural areas. However, as a resolution, it lacks direct legislative power, which may lead to discussions on funding and implementation depending on the response from the University of Hawaii's administration.

Contention

While SCR110 expresses urgency in establishing these programs, potential contention may arise regarding the allocation of resources and whether the University of Hawaii has the capacity to expand its offerings without compromising existing programs. The resolution also raises questions about ensuring that new educational pathways are effectively marketed and accessible to the targeted populations. Balancing educational growth with resource availability in Leeward and Central Oahu could become a focal point of debate moving forward.

Companion Bills

HI HCR177

Same As Urging The University Of Hawaii Community Colleges To Establish Baccalaureate Degree Programs In Agricultural Technology, Food Science, And Education At Leeward Community College.

HI SR116

Same As Urging The University Of Hawaii West Oahu To Establish Baccalaureate Degree Programs In Agricultural Technology, Food Science, And Education.

Previously Filed As

HI SCR202

Urging The Development Of A Baccalaureate Degree Program In Education With An Online Option At Leeward Community College To Address The Educational Needs Of Working Adults In All Counties.

HI SR178

Urging The Development Of A Baccalaureate Degree Program In Education With An Online Option At Leeward Community College To Address The Educational Needs Of Working Adults In All Counties.

HI SCR144

Urging The Department Of Education, University Of Hawaii Community Colleges, And Hawaii P-20 Partnerships For Education To Develop Clear Pathways For Students In Department Of Education Career And Technical Education Academies To Seamlessly Continue Their Education In Career And Technical Education Programs At University Of Hawaii Community Colleges.

HI SR173

Urging The Department Of Education, University Of Hawaii Community Colleges, And Hawaii P-20 Partnerships For Education To Develop Clear Pathways For Students In Department Of Education Career And Technical Education Academies To Seamlessly Continue Their Education In Career And Technical Education Programs At University Of Hawaii Community Colleges.

HI SB2754

Relating To The University Of Hawaii.

HI HB1931

Relating To The University Of Hawaii.

HI SB3301

Relating To The University Of Hawaii.

HI SB2938

Relating To The University Of Hawaii At Hilo.

HI SB1412

Relating To The University Of Hawaii Promise Program.

HI HB2684

Relating To The University Of Hawaii At Hilo.

Similar Bills

CA AB2166

California Farm Bill: agricultural technology.

US HB1705

Supporting Innovation in Agriculture Act of 2025

US HB9263

Supporting Innovation in Agriculture Act of 2024

CA AB488

California Broadband Council.

CA SB1062

Conversion of electrical generation facilities using biomass.

HI SR116

Urging The University Of Hawaii West Oahu To Establish Baccalaureate Degree Programs In Agricultural Technology, Food Science, And Education.

HI HCR177

Urging The University Of Hawaii Community Colleges To Establish Baccalaureate Degree Programs In Agricultural Technology, Food Science, And Education At Leeward Community College.

HI HR182

Urging The University Of Hawaii Community Colleges To Establish Baccalaureate Degree Programs In Agricultural Technology, Food Science, And Education At Leeward Community College.