Relating To Economic Development.
The bill's passage will establish a new Office of Tourism and Destination Management, which will take over responsibilities for tourism marketing and management in Hawaii. This new office will focus on best practice destination management and regenerative tourism, promoting a more sustainable tourism model that seeks not only to benefit the economy but also to enhance the social and environmental fabric of the communities involved. This transition is intended to streamline operations and ensure that tourism policies are more effectively aligned with state goals.
House Bill 1376 aims to address the inefficiencies and failures associated with the Hawaii Tourism Authority by dissolving it and transferring its functions to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. The bill identifies significant issues with the authority's management of a $34,000,000 tourism marketing contract, which has been stalled due to non-compliance with state procurement codes. This change is proposed to restore public confidence in the state's tourism management and address concerns about the effectiveness of the current body overseeing tourism initiatives.
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1376 include debates on the adequacy of existing management structures and the potential ramifications of such a significant organizational shift. Critics may voice concerns regarding the efficiency of the new office, particularly whether it can adequately manage the expectations and requirements of local municipalities and stakeholders. Additionally, there are questions about the logistical implications of transferring duties, such as the retention of employees and maintenance of institutional knowledge from the Tourism Authority.