S.B. 2042 Summary

• Establishes a temporary Puerto Rican Exchange Commission to coordinate cultural exchange programs between Hawaii and Puerto Rico, honoring Puerto Rican contributions to Hawaii since their arrival on December 23, 1900.

• Commission consists of 15 members appointed by the governor, including representatives from five Puerto Rican organizations and ten members from government, labor, business, culture, arts, and community sectors.

• Commission shall develop and coordinate cultural programs including workshops on Hawaiian dance and lei making, music performances, and art presentations, with participation from all segments of the Puerto Rican community.

• Commission must design and construct a monument commemorating the arrival of the first Puerto Ricans to Hawaii, to be donated and placed in Puerto Rico at a location representing where they began their journey.

• Commission ceases to exist January 1, 2016; must submit comprehensive report to governor prior to 2015 regular legislative session and final accounting report at end of term.

• Appropriates unspecified amount from general revenues for fiscal year 2014-2015 to fund programs, events, and monument construction.