STAND. COM. REP. NO. 786-20

Honolulu, Hawaii

, 2020

RE: H.B. No. 2094

H.D. 1

Honorable Scott K. Saiki

Speaker, House of Representatives

Thirtieth State Legislature

Regular Session of 2020

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Finance, to which was referred H.B. No. 2094, H.D. 1, entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO EARLY LEARNING,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to fill the need for qualified educators across the early learning system in programs delivered in either of Hawaii's two official languages by establishing and appropriating funds for an Early Childhood Educator Stipend Program that encourages individuals, especially those already working in the early childhood field, to pursue a certificate, degree, or license in early childhood education.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Early Learning Board; Executive Office on Early Learning; State Public Charter School Commission; Kamehameha Schools; Early Childhood Action Strategy; Democratic Party of Hawaii Education Caucus; Americans for Democratic Action; Hawaii Children's Action Network Speaks!; Parents and Children Together; Aha Punana Leo; and numerous individuals. Your Committee received comments on this measure from the Department of Human Services.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Finance that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 2094, H.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Third Reading.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Finance,

____________________________

SYLVIA LUKE, Chair