Hawaiʻi Act 251 (Session Laws of Hawaiʻi 2025) strengthens and expands Hawaiʻi’s internship programs to help students gain real-world work experience, build essential workplace skills, and prepare for future careers. The law recognizes the importance of structured internship and mentorship opportunities in developing communication, professional, and job-readiness skills, while also supporting a stronger local workforce.
With the passage of Act 251, the state-funded high school internship program is moving forward through the DOE Private Internship Program, supported by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and the Department of Education. After years of HLTA advocacy, it is especially gratifying to see this program advance and create meaningful, paid on-the-job training opportunities for students in both the public and private sectors.
Building on the success of HLTA’s 2023 pilot program with CNHA, the DOE Private Internship Program now expands opportunities for employers statewide, including lodging and allied members, to host paid high school interns across all islands. HLTA is working closely with the Department of Education to connect interested members with this program and help guide the next generation of Hawaiʻi’s hospitality workforce.
By broadening access to internships and strengthening public-private collaborations, Act 251 aims to:
If you are interested in participating in this program, please complete the contact form below.
Questions? Contact Ayami Sato.
With the passage of Act 251, the state-funded high school internship program is moving forward through the DOE Private Internship Program, supported by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and the Department of Education. After years of HLTA advocacy, it is especially gratifying to see this program advance and create meaningful, paid on-the-job training opportunities for students in both the public and private sectors.
Building on the success of HLTA’s 2023 pilot program with CNHA, the DOE Private Internship Program now expands opportunities for employers statewide, including lodging and allied members, to host paid high school interns across all islands. HLTA is working closely with the Department of Education to connect interested members with this program and help guide the next generation of Hawaiʻi’s hospitality workforce.
By broadening access to internships and strengthening public-private collaborations, Act 251 aims to:
- Provide high school and college students with practical on-the-job training,
- Foster connections between education and career opportunities,
- Support workforce development and economic growth in Hawaii.
If you are interested in participating in this program, please complete the contact form below.
Questions? Contact Ayami Sato.
Please see below for the General Conditions and Liability Insurance information.
| ag-008_103d_general_conditions__1.10.23_.pdf |
| liability_insurance.pdf |
