The bill proposes the prohibition of geotagging on public lands in Hawaii, making it a misdemeanor to engage in such acts. This legislative move highlights the state's intention to mitigate the risks associated with overtourism and protect both its cultural and natural environments. The identification of geotagging as a misdemeanor reflects a strong stance on maintaining public safety and environmental integrity, while also addressing potential privacy and cybersecurity risks that arise with the dissemination of location data.
House Bill 2124 aims to address the growing concerns surrounding geotagging, which involves the application of geographic coordinates to media based on the user's location through mobile electronic devices. The legislature has identified significant issues stemming from geotagging, particularly its contribution to overtourism in Hawaii, leading to increased visitor numbers that strain the state's natural resources and infrastructure. With the rise in tourists attracted to geotagged locations, safety concerns also emerge due to inadequacies in facilities meant to support such large gatherings.
Although the legislation is positioned as a protective measure, it may face challenges regarding individual freedom of expression and digital rights. Opponents may argue that the prohibition of geotagging could hinder the tourism experience by limiting visitors' ability to share their experiences on social media, which could be seen as valuable for promoting tourist locations. Furthermore, the effectiveness of enforcing such a law raises questions about practical implementation and the resources required by the department of law enforcement to oversee compliance.