Relating To The Hawaii Unmanned Aerial Systems Test Site Advisory Board.
Impact
The repeal of the Hawaii Unmanned Aerial Systems Test Site Advisory Board may lead to a lack of formal governance and planning related to unmanned aerial systems within the state. This change could potentially hinder Hawaii's ability to effectively manage the development and integration of UAV technology into both commercial and regulatory frameworks. Without an advisory board, there may be a gap in expertise and oversight required to advance the state's strategic interests in aerospace and drone technology.
Summary
House Bill 910 seeks to repeal the Hawaii Unmanned Aerial Systems Test Site Advisory Board, which was previously established to oversee the planning and operation of the Hawaii unmanned aerial systems test site. This board was composed of designated members from various state departments and representatives from the aerospace industry and business community. With this repeal, there will be no designated oversight body for the UAS test site, which raises questions about the future of this sector in Hawaii.
Contention
The primary points of contention surrounding HB910 relate to the implications of removing the advisory board. Proponents of the repeal may argue that it simplifies governance by eliminating unnecessary bureaucracy, while opponents may express concerns that the absence of an advisory board could reduce the state's competitiveness in the growing field of unmanned aerial systems. The decision to repeal may also reflect broader priorities within the Hawaii legislature regarding public-sector management of emerging technologies.