REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT TO ESTABLISH THE HAWAII STATE FELLOWS PROGRAM.

Senate Resolution 49 requests the Department of Human Resources Development to establish the Hawaii State Fellows Program. The resolution proposes a 10-11 month, paid fellowship for recent college graduates (requiring a bachelor's degree, 2.5 GPA, and U.S. work authorization) to address Hawaii's public sector recruitment and retention crisis. Key program elements include mentorship, leadership training, hands-on policy work across state agencies, and preference for applicants with local ties or commitment to long-term state leadership. The resolution requires the DHRD to report on the program's progress, budget, and outcomes to the Legislature by 2026. This is a procedural request, not binding legislation.