Relating To The State Historic Preservation Division.
Impact
The bill, if enacted, will directly affect state laws related to historic preservation by ensuring that the State Historic Preservation Division has the financial resources to operate effectively. The allocation of funds specifically for digitization indicates a shift towards embracing technology in historical documentation. This may also foster greater public access to historical records, which could enhance educational opportunities and community engagement in local history.
Summary
House Bill 754 aims to enhance the operations of the State Historic Preservation Division within Hawaii by appropriating funds for a library digitization process and for ongoing operational costs. The bill outlines specific financial allocations necessary for the fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025. This digitization initiative is intended to modernize the handling and accessibility of historical documents and resources, thereby potentially improving the archiving and preservation of Hawaii's cultural and historical heritage.
Contention
Despite its potential benefits, there may be points of contention regarding the adequacy of funding provided and the priorities of the State Historic Preservation Division. Stakeholders might express concerns over whether the funding is sufficient to ensure comprehensive digitization and operations or if it should focus more broadly on various preservation activities. Furthermore, debates could arise regarding the balance of funding between digitization efforts and the needs for maintaining physical sites and resources in preservation practices.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.