HI HR131

Supports the establishment of twenty-four hour open-air cultural marketplaces throughout Hawaii to boost visitor and resident spending and strengthen the state economy.

Requests the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism develop strategies to encourage spending through twenty-four hour open-air cultural marketplaces across the State.

Requires the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to submit a progress report with findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the Regular Session of 2013.

Identifies cultural marketplaces as venues for visitors and residents to shop for locally grown and made items, dine, enjoy entertainment, and experience Hawaii's diverse cultural heritage.

Directs certified copies be transmitted to the Governor, Director of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism, President of The Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii, and State Director of the Hawaii Small Business Development Center.