RELATING TO EDUCATION.

Hawaii's SB 2202 establishes a comprehensive program to address the state's shortage of school bus drivers by creating financial incentives and support systems for recruitment and retention. The bill authorizes grants to help candidates cover the costs of obtaining commercial driver's licenses and learner's permits, funded through a new special account that accepts legislative appropriations and federal grants. It also introduces a repayment signing bonus structure where new hires receive $1,000 upon hiring, with additional payments at six months and one year of service, though drivers who leave before completing three years must repay the initial bonus. Furthermore, the Department of Education is required to launch a three-year outreach program featuring recruitment campaigns and workforce development partnerships, while submitting quarterly reports to the legislature on driver vacancies, wages, and program expenditures.