This bill represents a commitment by the State of Hawaii to invest in its educational frameworks by directly supporting personnel needed to boost student services. Such appropriations are crucial for maintaining high standards in educational support, particularly in a university setting where student needs can fluctuate. By ensuring funding for these positions, the state acknowledges the need for better academic infrastructure and support, ultimately aiming to enhance student outcomes within the University of Hawaii system.
Summary
Bill SB959 seeks to appropriate funds to the University of Hawaii Pamantasan Council for the purpose of providing three full-time equivalent (3.0 FTE) academic and support services specialist positions. This funding is intended to enhance the academic support available to students and foster a more effective educational environment at the university. The goal is to improve services that directly benefit students through increased staffing in specialized academic roles, assisting in broader educational objectives.
Contention
While there does not appear to be significant public contention surrounding SB959, discussions may arise regarding state budget allocations and the prioritization of educational funding amid other state financial commitments. Questions of effectiveness in deploying the resources and achieving the intended improvements could emerge. Nevertheless, this bill has successfully passed through the Senate Higher Education Committee with unanimous support, indicating strong legislative backing and minimal opposition as it moves forward.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.