Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HCR40

Introduced
3/4/24  
Refer
3/8/24  
Introduced
3/4/24  

Caption

Requesting The Board Of Education To Adopt A Policy Relating To The Use Of Preferred Names For Students.

Impact

If enacted, HCR40 would require the Department of Education to implement a system that enables current and former students to declare a preferred name to be used in records unless a legal name is required. The policy would mandate updating all relevant records, including school-issued emails, identification, rosters, and diplomas, without charging any fees for the updates. This move is expected to create a more welcoming atmosphere within educational environments, reducing discrimination and promoting well-being among diverse student populations.

Summary

HCR40 is a House Concurrent Resolution from the State of Hawaii requesting the Board of Education to adopt a policy that allows students to use their preferred names instead of their legal names in school settings and documents. The resolution addresses the issue of 'deadnaming', which can adversely affect the emotional and psychological well-being of students, particularly those who are transgender, Indigenous, or belong to minority groups. Research indicates that using preferred names is linked to improved mental health outcomes, reducing instances of depression and suicidal thoughts among these students. The resolution emphasizes the need for educational institutions to foster inclusivity and support for every student by recognizing preferred names as valid identities.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding HCR40, particularly regarding the resources and administrative efforts required for implementation. Supporters argue that the emotional and psychological well-being of students outweighs any logistical issues, while critics may raise concerns about the administrative burden on schools and the need for training staff to handle the new procedures effectively. Furthermore, discussions around parental rights and the implications of allowing students to choose their preferred names could also arise, stirring differing opinions within the community about the balance between support and regulation.

Companion Bills

HI HR29

Same As Requesting The Board Of Education To Adopt A Policy Relating To The Use Of Preferred Names For Students.

Previously Filed As

HI HR29

Requesting The Board Of Education To Adopt A Policy Relating To The Use Of Preferred Names For Students.

HI SCR150

Requesting The Board Of Education To Adopt A Policy Relating To The Use Of Preferred Names For Students.

HI SR128

Requesting The Board Of Education To Adopt A Policy Relating To The Use Of Preferred Names For Students.

HI HB1799

Relating To Preferred Names.

HI SB2670

Relating To Preferred Names.

HI HCR38

Requesting The Board Of Education To Adopt A Policy Relating To Community Schools To Guide The Establishment Of Additional Community Schools Throughout The State.

HI HR27

Requesting The Board Of Education To Adopt A Policy Relating To Community Schools To Guide The Establishment Of Additional Community Schools Throughout The State.

HI SCR204

Requesting The Board Of Education To Adopt A Policy Relating To Community Schools To Guide The Establishment Of Additional Community Schools Throughout The State.

HI SR180

Requesting The Board Of Education To Adopt A Policy Relating To Community Schools To Guide The Establishment Of Additional Community Schools Throughout The State.

HI SR212

Requesting The Department Of Education To Establish A Task Force To Develop A Plan To Protect Students From The Vaping Epidemic And The Harms Of Smoking.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.