Hawaii House Bill HB269

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/23
• Refer: 1/25/23
• Report Pass: 2/14/23
• Refer: 2/14/23

Caption

Relating To The Hawaii Theatre Center.

Impact

The bill's implementation would give the Hawaii Theatre Center a formal status as the state's theatre, potentially allowing for more consistent governmental support. This could attract funding and resources for maintenance and operations, thereby ensuring the continuation of programs and performances that benefit the community. Additionally, the designation as the Hawaii State Theatre could raise the profile of the venue, enhancing its ability to draw visitors and locals alike, contributing positively to the state's cultural landscape.

Summary

House Bill 269 aims to protect and enhance the Hawaii Theatre Center, a historically significant performance venue in Hawaii. Established in 1922 and recognized as the second largest proscenium performance facility in the state, the bill seeks to address the longstanding lack of stable state support for the center. The bill outlines a framework for the Department of Accounting and General Services to submit a report on the plans for acquiring the Hawaii Theatre Center, which, if successful, would lead to the designation of the theater as the Hawaii State Theatre starting January 1, 2025.

Contention

While the bill is generally seen as a positive step for the preservation of the arts in Hawaii, some concerns may arise regarding the financial implications of acquiring and maintaining a state-backed theatre. Questions around ongoing operational costs and the balance of state investment versus private nonprofit control may provoke discussions during legislative debates. Moreover, stakeholders may express varying opinions on the sufficiency of the proposed support and the specific uses of the theatre under its new designation. These factors could become central to discussions about the bill's passage.