Relating To Residence For Tuition Purposes.
If enacted, HB 919 would amend Section 304A-402 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to alter the current rules governing how residency for tuition is determined. The revised provisions would enable Hawaii high school graduates to qualify for resident tuition under specific conditions, allowing them to benefit from lower tuition rates despite having spent time outside the state. This legislative change is seen as a way to support local students and encourage them to continue their education in Hawaii, contributing to the state's higher education goals.
House Bill 919 addresses the residency requirements for tuition purposes at the University of Hawaii. It aims to ensure that all Hawaii high school graduates, as well as those who have received equivalent credentials, are granted resident tuition status when they return from out-of-state institutions to pursue higher education in Hawaii. This bill is largely prompted by the significant number of high school graduates who attend college outside the state and later wish to return to enroll in a University of Hawaii campus, including community colleges.
Notably, there may be points of contention surrounding HB 919 regarding its potential impact on state resources and university funding. Critics might argue that adjusting residency requirements could strain resources as more students qualify for resident tuition, potentially diminishing the quality of educational services or leading to increased costs for the state. However, supporters contend that the bill would not only support local students but also help retain the state’s youth, promoting educational attainment and economic growth in Hawaii.