Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR68

Introduced
3/8/24  
Refer
3/14/24  
Introduced
3/8/24  
Refer
3/27/24  
Refer
3/14/24  
Report Pass
4/3/24  
Refer
3/27/24  
Engrossed
4/4/24  
Report Pass
4/3/24  
Refer
4/5/24  
Engrossed
4/4/24  

Caption

Requesting Businesses In Hawaii To Use Hawaiian Language And Requesting The Department Of Education To Develop And Implement Education Programs To Teach Employees Hawaiian And Hire Permanent Hawaiian Language Teachers.

Impact

The resolution does not enact law but expresses a strong appeal to businesses and educational authorities to facilitate the integration of the Hawaiian language into their frameworks. By advocating for the hiring of permanent Hawaiian language teachers and the establishment of educational programs by the Department of Education, SCR68 aims to enhance language competencies among employees, thereby ensuring the longevity of the language and its relevance in modern Hawaii. If adopted, the resolution could lead to heightened visibility of the Hawaiian language in public life and encourage a cultural renaissance pertaining to Hawaiian identity.

Summary

SCR68 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the Thirty-second Legislature of Hawaii, aimed at promoting the use of the Hawaiian language, known as ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, in business operations across the state. The resolution highlights the significance of the Hawaiian language in preserving the cultural identity of Hawaii and advocates for an inclusive environment that embraces the state's rich cultural diversity. It requests businesses to incorporate the Hawaiian language in their daily operations, including signage and communication, which could encourage a broader acceptance and use of the language within the commercial sphere.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SCR68 appears to be supportive, particularly among advocates of Hawaiian culture and language preservation. There is an underlying acknowledgment of the importance of the Hawaiian language in fostering community cohesion and promoting cultural understanding. However, the proactive requirement for businesses may raise concerns among some stakeholders regarding whether it could impose additional burdens on commercial operations, leading to a mixed reception in broader business communities.

Contention

Despite the overall positivity surrounding the resolution, notable points of contention may arise regarding the implementation and compliance from businesses. Some may question the feasibility and potential costs associated with incorporating the Hawaiian language into their operations. Furthermore, the call for educational resources may evoke discussions about budgetary allocations and the priority of language programs in an educational system already facing various challenges. The resolution serves as a catalyst for conversations regarding the balance of cultural maintenance and economic practicality.

Companion Bills

HI SR56

Same As Requesting Businesses In Hawaii To Use Hawaiian Language And Requesting The Department Of Education To Develop And Implement Education Programs To Teach Employees Hawaiian And Hire Permanent Hawaiian Language Teachers.

Similar Bills

HI HB2491

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI SB1317

Relating To Public Land Trust Funds.

HI HB1266

Relating To Public Land Trust Funds.

HI HR21

Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.

HI HCR32

Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.

HI SB1413

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI HB1986

Relating To The Board Of Education.

HI SB392

Relating To Support For Traditional Native Speakers Of Hawaiian.