Relating To Tourism Governance.
The bill mandates the Legislative Reference Bureau to carry out a study identifying and analyzing various tourism governance systems that have been implemented elsewhere, aiming to extract valuable lessons and best practices for Hawaii. This study will include input from multiple stakeholders and will assess the effectiveness of different governance approaches, addressing concerns about the sustainability of tourism growth and its socio-economic impacts. The findings are expected to contribute to a legislative framework that could improve how tourism is managed across the state, promoting both visitor satisfaction and resident welfare.
SB2170 focuses on the establishment of a comprehensive governance system for tourism in Hawaii, aimed at balancing the interests of both residents and visitors. The bill acknowledges the significant role that tourism plays in the state's economy while also addressing the challenges posed by high visitor numbers, which have led to mounting concerns among residents regarding 'overtourism'. The proposed solution involves studying alternative governance systems that can promote effective tourism management and oversight, ensuring that both state and county agencies, along with private and community stakeholders, are involved in the decision-making process.
The sentiment surrounding SB2170 is generally positive among proponents who see it as a necessary step towards responsible tourism that respects residents' needs and the environmental sustainability of Hawaii’s unique landscape. However, there are concerns from some quarters regarding the potential for bureaucratic overreach or inadequacies in addressing specific local issues, highlighting the importance of stakeholder engagement in crafting the new governance model.
Notable points of contention include the balance between tourism promotion and the prevention of oversaturation of local resources. Critics question whether the study and subsequent recommendations will effectively address the concerns raised by residents about the impacts of tourism on their daily lives. Additionally, the effectiveness of the Hawaii tourism authority's past initiatives has been scrutinized, making it crucial for the new governance structure to incorporate enforceable mechanisms for accountability and coordination among various stakeholders.