Kansas House Bill HB2332

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 2/16/23
• Engrossed: 3/1/23
• Refer: 3/2/23
• Report Pass: 3/13/23
• Enrolled: 4/3/23
• Passed: 4/24/23

Caption

Updating references and corresponding changes related to 2021 Executive Reorganization Order No. 48 and the transfer of the division of tourism from the department of wildlife and parks to the department of commerce.

Impact

The passage of HB2332 involves several amendments to long-standing statutes governing the capturing and management of wildlife and tourism in Kansas. The bill modifies existing provisions concerning the powers and duties of state officers related to tourism, thereby affecting how tourism efforts are coordinated across state agencies. Supporters argue that this reorganization will ensure that tourism policy is more aligned with economic growth and development strategies, potentially leading to increased funding and more robust marketing efforts for tourism in Kansas.

Summary

House Bill 2332 seeks to transfer the Division of Tourism from the Department of Wildlife and Parks to the Department of Commerce in Kansas. This legislation aims to streamline operational functions and enhance the focus on tourism as an economic driver. By placing tourism under the Department of Commerce, the bill underscores a strategic shift towards viewing tourism as part of broader economic development initiatives within the state.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB2332 appears positive among proponents of economic development, suggesting that tying tourism management closely with commerce will yield benefits. However, critics of restructuring express concerns regarding the potential dilution of wildlife and environmental protections that were historically associated with the Department of Wildlife and Parks. This bifurcation of interests raises questions about the oversight of wildlife management as it relates to tourism development and could lead to tension over priorities.

Contention

One notable point of contention in the discussions surrounding HB2332 is the balance between promoting economic interests through tourism and maintaining rigorous environmental standards which have been the hallmark of wildlife management. Stakeholders worry that moving tourism to a commercial context could edge out conservation-focused priorities and lead to conflicts between tourism growth and wildlife preservation efforts. Lawmakers and advocates emphasize the need for careful consideration to ensure that environmental stewardship remains a priority in the department's newly structured mandate.