Hawaii Senate Bill SCR215

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/12/25

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Education To Implement A Veterinary Technician Pilot Program At James Campbell High School, Focusing On Animal-assisted Therapy For Troubled Youth.

Impact

If enacted, SCR215 would mark a significant step in integrating animal-assisted therapy into the educational framework of James Campbell High School. This program is expected to serve as a model that could expand to other schools statewide, potentially impacting the emotional and psychological well-being of students across Hawaii. By preparing these students for future careers in veterinary science and animal care, the program not only supports personal development but also addresses workforce readiness in related fields.

Summary

SCR215 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution requesting the Department of Education in Hawaii to implement a veterinary technician pilot program at James Campbell High School. This program aims to focus on animal-assisted therapy specifically designed to support troubled youth by allowing them the opportunity to care for animals. The underlying goal of this initiative is to foster critical life skills such as empathy, responsibility, and emotional growth among participants. As per the proponents of the resolution, animal-assisted therapy has demonstrated therapeutic benefits for individuals facing emotional and behavioral challenges, making this program highly relevant to addressing the needs of at-risk youth.

Contention

The proposal includes detailed standards aimed at ensuring a safe and effective environment for both students and the animals involved. These standards encompass comprehensive training provided by qualified organizations, consistent supervision by qualified instructors, strict adherence to established safety protocols, and the necessity for liability coverage to mitigate potential risks. While the resolution appears beneficial, some stakeholders might raise questions regarding the costs associated with implementing such a program and the logistics of ensuring compliance with the outlined safety standards.