HI HB648

Establishes the China-Hawaii Economic Council within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to further economic relations between China and Hawaii.

Creates a seven-member China-Hawaii Economic Council Commission appointed by the governor to oversee the council, with members serving without compensation but receiving reimbursement for reasonable expenses.

Requires the commission to appoint an executive director (part-time or full-time) who must have professional qualifications in China-Hawaii relations and be familiar with both cultures.

Mandates the council conduct an inaugural general meeting with business and government leaders from China and Hawaii by December 31, 2020, followed by annual meetings that may alternate between Hawaii and China and discuss trade, tourism, education, investment, finance, communication, and culture.

Appropriates unspecified funds from general revenues for fiscal years 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 and sunsets the statute on June 30, 2035.