On February 21, 2026, Hawaii Governor signed a new education law that mandates increased funding for special education programs across the state. The law, known as the Students with Disabilities Act, aims to provide greater support and resources to students with disabilities in Hawaii's public schools.Under the new law, schools will receive additional funding to hire more special education teachers, specialists, and support staff. This funding will also be used to implement new instructional programs and technologies specifically designed to meet the needs of students with disabilities.In addition to increased funding, the Students with Disabilities Act also includes provisions for more comprehensive teacher training in special education, as well as the establishment of a statewide accountability system to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of special education programs.Governor praised the new law as a significant step towards ensuring that all students in Hawaii have access to a quality education. "Every child in Hawaii deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their abilities or disabilities," said Governor. "This law represents our commitment to providing the necessary support and resources to help students with disabilities reach their full potential."The Students with Disabilities Act has been met with widespread support from educators, parents, and advocacy groups. Many see it as a long-overdue measure to address the persistent challenges faced by students with disabilities in Hawaii's public schools.Moving forward, the state will work closely with school districts to implement the new law and ensure that all students with disabilities receive the support they need to thrive academically. This landmark legislation marks a significant step forward in Hawaii's ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable education system for all students.