Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HR47

Introduced
3/12/26  
Refer
3/18/26  
Report Pass
4/2/26  

Caption

Urging The Hawaii Tourism Authority To Add A Stipulation To Its Signature Event Program To Require Thirty Percent Of Funds Awarded Through The Program To Be Used To Market Events To Out-of-state Markets.

Impact

If adopted, this resolution would significantly influence how the signature events program operates, ensuring that a substantial portion of public funds is directed towards marketing efforts that aim to increase visitor demand from outside Hawaii. By mandating that funding allocations include marketing components, the HTA would be better positioned to strengthen Hawaii's reputation as a premier tourist destination. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of robust marketing strategies in the overall success of funded events.

Summary

House Resolution 47 urges the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) to require that thirty percent of the funds awarded through its Signature Event Program be specifically used for marketing events to out-of-state markets. This resolution is motivated by the need to enhance Hawaii's tourism by actively promoting events that showcase the state's unique culture and appeal to a broader audience beyond local residents. The resolution highlights successful events funded by the HTA, such as the Pan-Pacific Festival and the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival, which attract both national and international visitors.

Contention

While the intention behind HR47 is to foster greater tourism growth, there could be potential challenges concerning its implementation. Concerns may arise about how strictly the HTA can enforce this requirement on grantees and whether these funds would be adequately allocated for marketing as intended. Some stakeholders might argue that existing programs provide flexibility that allows local event planners to utilize funds in accordance with their specific needs, which may differ from one event to another. Potential pushback could also come from those who favor a more localized approach to event funding and marketing.

Resolution

Ultimately, HR47 seeks to ensure that publicly funded events contribute not only to local enjoyment but also to the broader economic health of Hawaii through increased tourism. The focus on out-of-state marketing indicates a strategic pivot towards attracting new visitors, which could redefine the scope and impact of the HTA's Signature Event Program moving forward.

Companion Bills

HI HCR51

Same As Urging The Hawaii Tourism Authority To Add A Stipulation To Its Signature Event Program To Require Thirty Percent Of Funds Awarded Through The Program To Be Used To Market Events To Out-of-state Markets.

Previously Filed As

HI HR136

Urging The Hawaii Tourism Authority And Department Of Transportation To Expand The Khea Airport Greetings Program To Display Keiki Art In All Neighbor Island Airports.

HI HCR142

Urging The Hawaii Tourism Authority And Department Of Transportation To Expand The Khea Airport Greetings Program To Display Keiki Art In All Neighbor Island Airports.

HI HR137

Strongly Urging The Hawaii Tourism Authority To Encourage All Transient Accommodations To Incorporate The Pono Pledge As A Requirement For Guest Check-in.

HI HB603

Relating To Native Hawaiian Business Marketing.

HI HCR143

Strongly Urging The Hawaii Tourism Authority To Encourage All Transient Accommodations To Incorporate The Pono Pledge As A Requirement For Guest Check-in.

HI SB1536

Relating To The Hawaii Tourism Authority.

HI SCR221

Urging The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands To Repeal, Revoke, Or Buy Out The Remainder Of The Lease Of The Prince Kuhio Plaza And Resell That Lease At Fair Market Value To A New Entity That Agrees To Properly Maintain The Property.

HI HR66

Urging The University Of Hawaii President And Board Of Regents To Establish A Bachelor Of Science In Nursing Program At The University Of Hawaii Maui Campus.

HI SR196

Urging The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands To Repeal, Revoke, Or Buy Out The Remainder Of The Lease Of The Prince Kuhio Plaza And Resell That Lease At Fair Market Value To A New Entity That Agrees To Properly Maintain The Property.

HI HB497

Relating To The Hawaii Child Nutrition Programs.

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