Appropriates funds to the University of Hawaii at Manoa School of Social Work. (HB3165 HD1)

A BILL FOR AN ACT

SECTION 1. With the severity of the current shortage in social workers, the University of Hawaii school of social work does not have the capacity to produce the number of social workers needed to sustain the profession in this state. Unless this problem is addressed, the State will move towards de-professionalizing social work positions, which puts service recipients at risk.

The legislature finds that a director of research will serve to develop a broad-based research agenda for the school of social work. This person will initiate research activities that will serve as the basis for the development of effective programs in areas such as child abuse and neglect, substance abuse, including "ice", homelessness, and elderly issues. Hawaii lacks evidence-based treatment programs that support the promotion of "best practices."

The legislature also finds that funding for three additional faculty positions will enable the University of Hawaii at Manoa school of social work to offer a master of social work degree program that can be accessed by residents of the state who would otherwise be unable to pursue advanced degrees at the University of Hawaii because of logistical and other related barriers. The proposed distance education program will be extended initially to residents of the neighbor islands using a technology-based format (i.e., a combination of two-way video and computer-based technology) as the primary means for delivering course material to students. The distance education program will annually increase the total enrollment in the master of social work program by approximately thirty-eight per cent. It has been identified as a high priority program by the university administration because of pressing state workforce needs, particularly on the neighbor islands, and the need to establish better equity for neighbor island residents in relation to access to higher education and professional training. Without funding, the school will be unable to initiate the program.

The legislature further finds that an endowed scholarship will support social work students who have great academic and professional potential and yet lack the financial resources to pay for rising tuition costs at the University of Hawaii. Many of our best candidates are from modest economic backgrounds and first-generation college students. This scholarship will enable more students to pursue social work as a career and, by easing the economic burden on students and their families, will enable more of them to complete the program and enter the community as professional social service providers.

SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2006-2007 for the school of social work.

The sum appropriated shall be expended by the University of Hawaii for the purposes of this Act.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2006.