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HCR 51

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.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Gedeon and 2 co-sponsors

Hawaii legislature urges tourism authority to mandate 30% of signature event grants go toward marketing to out-of-state audiences to boost visitor spending.

To be offered.
#hta #out-of-statemarketing #signatureeventprogramgrants
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HCR 51

Legislative bill overview

HCR 51 is a non-binding resolution urging the Hawaii Tourism Authority to modify its Signature Event Program by requiring that at least 30% of awarded funds be dedicated to marketing events to out-of-state audiences. This is a concurrent resolution, meaning it expresses the legislature's intent but does not carry the force of law.

Why is this important

Hawaii's tourism industry is a major economic driver for the state, and signature events attract visitors and generate revenue. This resolution seeks to ensure that public funds supporting these events prioritize reaching mainland and international audiences rather than focusing primarily on local promotion, potentially maximizing visitor spending and economic impact.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining "out-of-state markets": Unclear whether this includes just mainland U.S. or international markets, which have different marketing costs and ROI profiles
  • Marketing efficiency concerns: Requiring a fixed 30% allocation to out-of-state marketing may not reflect optimal spending for every event—some events may benefit more from local community support and attendance
  • Authority autonomy: The Hawaii Tourism Authority may resist legislative micromanagement of spending allocations and argue that flexible, data-driven decisions serve their mission better
  • Non-binding nature: As a concurrent resolution with no enforcement mechanism, the tourism authority can ignore the urging without legal consequences

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

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