While the need for the HiYC is urgent for our generation,
the story of the Commission comes with failed attempts in its
inception.
Prelude
2016: The first version of the HiYC was introduced as “Youth
Advisory Board” by Honolulu Charter Commission Member Nathan
Okubo
which failed to pass after a 5-4 vote.
2017: The next versions of the HiYC were introduced as
companion House and Senate Bills.
Both versions of the bill failed to get a hearing from the
Senate Ways and Means Committee.
2018: Senator Stanley Change introduces the Hawaiʻi State
Youth Commission Act. The Act is approved in the legislature!
July 5, 2018: Signed into law, HB 1716 signals the creation of
the Hawaiʻi State Youth Commission.This final version makes HiYC a permanent commission under
the State.
June 2020: The first cohort of Hawaiʻi State Youth
Commissioners is established.