Hawaii House Bill HB754

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/23
• Refer: 1/30/23
• Report Pass: 2/9/23
• Refer: 2/9/23

Caption

Relating To The State Historic Preservation Division.

Impact

The bill's passing would directly influence state laws by providing a structured funding approach to preserve Hawaii’s historical and cultural heritage. By appropriating funds for digitization, the bill would modernize access to historical records and streamline operations within the division. This upgrade could lead to better-informed decisions regarding historical sites and artifacts, ultimately fostering greater appreciation and engagement with Hawaii's rich cultural history. Specific impacts may include improved historical data management and enhanced public access to important cultural records.

Summary

House Bill 754 of the Thirty-Second Legislature of Hawaii focuses on enhancing the operations of the State Historic Preservation Division. The bill aims to allocate necessary funds out of the general revenues of Hawaii for a library digitization project, which would support the preservation and accessibility of historical resources and documents. Additionally, there are provisions for operational costs that the division anticipates for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025. This effort marks a significant move towards improving the infrastructural capabilities of the Historic Preservation Division to better serve the public and manage Hawaii's historical assets.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 754 appears to be generally positive, with bipartisan support for the preservation of historical resources. However, discussions might include concerns about the adequacy of funding and the implementation of digitization processes. Stakeholders advocating for historical preservation are likely to see this bill as a vital step towards safeguarding the state’s cultural heritage, while critics may question if the funds appropriated align fully with the needs of the division.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the appropriations and the effectiveness of the funds allocated. Questions regarding how the digitization process will be executed, the timelines for the proposed projects, and whether the department has sufficient mechanisms in place to ensure fiscal responsibility and optimal use of resources might be discussed. The effectiveness of the bill will ultimately hinge on the successful implementation of the digitization plan and its acceptance by the stakeholders within Hawaii's historical preservation community.