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Bill

Bill

SB 1344

RELATING TO THE CENTER FOR CULTURAL AND TECHNICAL INTERCHANGE BETWEEN EAST AND WEST, INC.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 1344 secures funding for the East-West Center, enhancing educational and cultural exchanges between the U.S. and Asia-Pacific, benefiting diverse participants.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · SB 1344

Summary of SB 1344: Center for Cultural and Technical Interchange Between East and West, Inc.

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 1344 (SB 1344) aims to enhance the operations and funding of the Center for Cultural and Technical Interchange Between East and West, Inc. (commonly known as the East-West Center). The bill seeks to ensure that the Center can continue its mission of promoting mutual understanding and cooperation among the peoples of the Asia-Pacific region and the United States through educational and cultural exchanges.

Key Provisions

  • Funding Appropriations: The bill proposes general fund appropriations to support the activities of the East-West Center. Specific dollar amounts for these appropriations are not detailed in the current version of the bill.
  • Legislative Framework: SB 1344 amends Chapter 42F of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, which governs the operations and funding mechanisms for the East-West Center.
  • Operational Support: The bill is designed to provide the necessary financial resources to facilitate programs, research, and initiatives that align with the Center's mission.

Affected Parties

  • East-West Center: The primary beneficiary of this bill is the East-West Center, which relies on state funding to operate its various programs and initiatives.
  • Participants and Stakeholders: Individuals and organizations involved in cultural and educational exchanges between the U.S. and Asia-Pacific countries will also be positively impacted by the enhanced support for the Center's activities.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 21, 2025
  • First Reading: The bill was introduced and passed its first reading on January 23, 2025.
  • Referred to Committees: On January 27, 2025, SB 1344 was referred to the Senate Committees on Tourism, Culture, and the Arts (TCA) and Ways and Means (WAM) for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • Companion Bill: HB 1025 serves as a companion bill in the House, which may address similar provisions or funding mechanisms for the East-West Center.

Conclusion

SB 1344 represents a legislative effort to secure funding and support for the East-West Center, which plays a crucial role in fostering international dialogue and collaboration. The bill's progress through the legislative process will be closely monitored, particularly as it moves through committee reviews and potential amendments.

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

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