REQUESTING THE LEGISLATIVE REFERENCE BUREAU, IN CONSULTATION WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND TOURISM; DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES; AND UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII ECONOMIC RESEARCH ORGANIZATION, TO CONDUCT A FEASIBILITY STUDY ON ESTABLISHING A GUARANTEED UNIVERSAL BASIC INCOME PROGRAM FOR WORKING FAMILIES IN HAWAII.

This bill requests that the Legislative Reference Bureau conduct a feasibility study on creating a guaranteed universal basic income program for working families in Hawaii. The study will be carried out in collaboration with state agencies and the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization to assess the practicality of such a program. Key areas of analysis include potential program structures, estimated costs and funding sources, impacts on poverty and workforce participation, and lessons from similar programs in other locations. The final report with findings and recommendations is due to the Legislature before the 2027 session begins.