This bill, signed into law by the Governor of Hawaii on July 13, 2026, authorizes the state Department of Education to award high school diplomas to specific individuals who missed earning one due to military service or wartime disruptions. It expands eligibility beyond the previous law to include those who served in the armed forces during World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War, as well as those whose education was interrupted by wartime practices during those same conflicts. To receive a diploma, eligible applicants must submit the required forms to the department proving they were residents of Hawaii at the time and did not complete their high school curriculum. This change updates existing statutes to recognize the educational contributions of veterans and affected individuals from three major 20th-century wars.
Establishes the Veterans Cemeteries Board within the Office of Veterans Services of the Department of Defense to provide veterans cemeteries in the State with guidance, education, technical assistance, and other support to ensure compliance with standards set by the National Cemetery Administration of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
Authorizes the Adjutant General to expand the Hawaii National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program to include graduate degrees at the University of Hawaii for qualified enlisted personnel in the Hawaii National Guard. (CD1)
Authorizes the Department of Education to establish a program to award a high school diploma to qualified persons who did not receive a high school diploma as a result of compulsorily or voluntarily induction into the armed services of the United States and to persons whose high school education was interrupted due to wartime practices.
Authorizes the Department of Education to award a high school diploma to qualified persons who did not receive a high school diploma as a result of compulsory or voluntary induction into the armed services of the United States or whose high school education was interrupted due to wartime practices during World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
Establishes a statewide framework for the assessment and the award of academic credit for prior learning acquired through military service, workforce training, apprenticeships, professional certifications, and other structured learning experiences outside of traditional classrooms.
Authorizes the Department of Education to award a high school diploma to qualified persons who did not receive a high school diploma as a result of compulsory or voluntary induction into the armed services of the United States or whose high school education was interrupted due to wartime practices during World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War. (HD2)
Requires the Department of Education to develop and implement a 100th Infantry Battalion history curricula plan beginning with the 2027-2028 school year. Establishes a one-year 100th Infantry Battalion history curriculum pilot program within certain public high schools during the 2026-2027 school year. Requires a report to the Legislature.
HB 652 would regulate individuals or entities that charge fees for providing advice or assistance with veterans' benefits applications. It directly affects paid advisors (such as consultants or representatives) who help veterans navigate benefits systems. The bill would establish requirements for these advisors, likely including licensing, disclosure rules, or standards for their services. Currently, the bill is pending review after being referred to committees, with a recommendation to defer further action as of January 31, 2025. It has not yet become law.
Authorizes the Department of Education to award a high school diploma to qualified persons who did not receive a high school diploma as a result of compulsory or voluntary induction into the armed services of the United States or whose high school education was interrupted due to wartime practices during World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War.
