Relating To Economic Development.
The passage of HB 1376 will have significant implications for state laws governing tourism and economic development. It establishes a holistic approach to tourism that includes regenerative tourism practices. The new office will focus on strategies to promote tourism while minimizing negative environmental impacts and enhancing community well-being. It is also charged with implementing county destination management action plans, thereby allowing for localized control and tailored strategies to meet specific community needs.
House Bill 1376 aims to reform the management of tourism in Hawaii by dissolving the Hawaii Tourism Authority and transferring its functions and responsibilities to a newly established Office of Tourism and Destination Management within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. This initiative arises from concerns over the Hawaii Tourism Authority's failure to effectively manage a significant $34 million tourism marketing contract, resulting in a lack of compliance with state procurement laws. By establishing the new office, the bill intends to restore public confidence in the tourism management process and ensure adherence to best practices in destination management.
While supporters argue that the reform is essential for effective tourism management, critics express concerns that dissolving the Hawaii Tourism Authority may lead to diminished oversight and accountability in tourism-related activities. The bill will authorize substantial funding for the new office and its activities, which some lawmakers feel is necessary for successful implementation. However, there may be contention surrounding the transparency and allocation of these funds, as well as the transition of responsibilities from the tourism authority to the new office, which could provoke debates over governance effectiveness in the state's tourism sector.