Governor Signs Hawai‘i Promise Bill, Providing Scholarships for Community College Students

Governor David Ige. Photo courtesy of the Office of Governor David Ige.

On Friday, June 1, 2018, Gov. David Ige signed HB 2501 which codifies and appropriates $700,000 for fiscal year 2018-2019 for the University of Hawai‘i Community College Promise Program. The Legislature appropriated $1.8 million for the program during the 2017 session. This year’s appropriation raises the fund to $2.5 million.

“We promised our students that the cost of attending a community college will not be a barrier, and we’re keeping our promise,” said Gov. Ige. “This program makes it possible for everyone in our communities to have access to colleges so they can increase their career and earning potential. The Hawaiʻi Promise program is another way we are investing in our people and changing the trajectory of Hawaiʻi.”

This program provides scholarships for students at community college campuses in the University of Hawai‘i system. Eligible students pay what they can and the state makes up the difference. The funds can be used for tuition and other expenses such as books and fees.

HB 2501 becomes ACT 14 and takes effect on July 1, 2018.