HI SB2598

Establishes the Hawaii Commission on African American History and Culture to recognize African American contributions to Hawaii and educate residents and visitors about this history.

Commission consists of 11 members: 5 appointed by the governor, 3 by the speaker of the house, and 3 by the president of the senate, with members selected by the group to serve as chair.

Commission may initiate and coordinate projects and events to advance understanding of African American history and culture, and shall publish annual reports with recommendations to honor African American contributions.

Commission is administratively placed within the office of the governor and members receive no compensation but are reimbursed for necessary expenses.

Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal year 2014-2015 for operational expenses, with the amount left blank in the bill text; effective date is July 1, 2050.