Hawaii House Bill HCR15

Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/25/26
• Refer: 3/10/26

Caption

Expressing Support For The Kamehameha Schools Admissions Policy And Urging The Hawaii Attorney General To Submit An Amicus Curiae Brief To Defend The Admissions Policy In Any Future Lawsuit.

Impact

The resolution stresses that the admissions preference is a necessary remedial measure to address the historical and ongoing challenges that Native Hawaiians face in educational achievements compared to other groups. The bill articulates the importance of maintaining this policy to ensure the survival and prosperity of Native Hawaiian identity and culture. It underscores the belief that the policy is not only lawful but is also ethically vital, particularly in the light of recent legal challenges to race-conscious admissions in institutions across the country.

Summary

HCR15 expresses support for the admissions policy of Kamehameha Schools, which grants preference to Native Hawaiian applicants. This policy was originally established by Princess Bernice Pauahi Paki Bishop, the last descendant of the Kamehameha dynasty, as a means to rectify historical injustices faced by Native Hawaiians. It aims to foster educational parity among different ethnic groups within Hawaii, and its legality has previously been upheld by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, HCR15 seeks to reaffirm the commitment of the Hawaii Legislature to support policies that promote equity in education for Native Hawaiians while defending the integrity of Kamehameha Schools against external legal challenges. The resolution calls on state authorities to protect culturally significant practices that serve an essential role in maintaining the legacy and identity of Native Hawaiians in education.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding HCR15 arises from the ongoing challenge to Kamehameha's admissions policy by the organization Students for Fair Admissions, which posits that such preferences may be discriminatory. However, HCR15 counters that the specific legal framework governing Kamehameha Schools allows for these practices in a way that is distinct from federally funded institutions. The bill urges the Hawaii Attorney General to file an amicus curiae brief in defense of the admissions policy, highlighting the perceived threats to Native Hawaiian rights and educational opportunities.