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HB 447

Crimes and offenses; crimes of gift card theft, gift card forgery, and gift card fraud; provide

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Carter Barrett and 4 co-sponsors

HB 447 establishes a Tourism Emergency Special Fund in Hawaii, using Transient Accommodations Tax revenues to support the tourism sector during emergencies.

Act 627
#crimesandoffenses(criminalcode)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 447

Summary of HB 447 - Related to Tourism

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HB 447
  • Title: Related to Tourism
  • Status: Introduced and Passed First Reading
  • Introduced On: January 17, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject Areas: Governor, Hawaii Tourism Authority, Tourism Emergency, Tourism Emergency Special Fund, Transient Accommodations Tax Revenues

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 447 is to address issues related to tourism in Hawaii, particularly in response to emergencies that may affect the tourism sector. The bill aims to establish mechanisms for funding and managing tourism-related emergencies through the creation of a special fund.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of the Tourism Emergency Special Fund: The bill proposes the creation of a special fund dedicated to managing tourism emergencies. This fund would be utilized to support the Hawaii Tourism Authority in its efforts to mitigate the impacts of unforeseen events on the tourism industry.

  • Allocation of Transient Accommodations Tax Revenues: The bill outlines provisions for the allocation of revenues generated from the Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT) to support the Tourism Emergency Special Fund. This allocation is intended to ensure that adequate financial resources are available during times of crisis.

  • Role of the Governor and Hawaii Tourism Authority: The bill emphasizes the roles of the Governor and the Hawaii Tourism Authority in overseeing the implementation and management of the fund, ensuring that tourism recovery efforts are coordinated effectively.

Impact

  • Tourism Sector: The bill is expected to have a significant impact on the tourism industry in Hawaii by providing a structured approach to addressing emergencies that could disrupt tourism activities. This could enhance the resilience of the sector and support its recovery during challenging times.

  • State Revenue Management: By reallocating TAT revenues, the bill seeks to optimize the use of state funds in response to tourism-related emergencies, potentially leading to more effective financial management within the state.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Actions:

    • January 17, 2025: Bill introduced and pending introduction.
    • January 21, 2025: Bill referred to the committees on Tourism (TOU), Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JHA), and Finance (FIN), and passed its first reading.

  • Related Bills: HB 447 has a companion bill, SB 986, which may address similar issues or provisions related to tourism.

Conclusion

HB 447 represents a proactive approach to safeguarding Hawaii's vital tourism sector against emergencies. By establishing a dedicated fund and outlining the roles of key stakeholders, the bill aims to enhance the state's ability to respond effectively to challenges that could impact tourism. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, further details and provisions may be refined to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with the needs of the tourism industry.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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