Relating To A Hawaii State Capitol Welcome Center Facility.
Impact
If passed, this bill will authorize the issuance of general obligation bonds, thereby facilitating the financial backing necessary for the design and construction of the welcome center. The allocated funds are intended to cover expenses throughout the fiscal year 2023-2024. Moreover, the bill stipulates that the appropriated funds shall not lapse at the end of the fiscal biennium, provided that unencumbered funds as of June 30, 2026, will lapse. This provision ensures a sustained commitment to the project into the future.
While the bill appears straightforward, discussions may arise around the allocation of state funds, especially in the context of financial priorities within Hawaii. Concern may be expressed regarding the necessity of a welcome center versus other urgent public service needs, leading to debates about fiscal responsibility and the state's commitment to tourism and education. The construction of such a facility could also prompt discussions on its long-term maintenance and operational costs, with various stakeholders, potentially including educational institutions and local communities, weighing in on its value and functionality.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.