HI HCR118

Requests the Hawaii Sister-State Committee to evaluate and develop recommendations for initiating a sister-state relationship between Hawaii and Goa, India.

Identifies shared characteristics between Hawaii and Goa including coastal locations, diverse populations, multiple languages and religions, and tourism-based economies.

Anticipates potential benefits including increased commerce and trade in tourism and film industries, plus economic, social, cultural, educational, and environmental exchanges.

Requires the Hawaii Sister-State Committee to submit findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2016 Regular Session convenes.

Directs certified copies be sent to the Hawaii Governor, Governor of Goa, Indian Consul General in San Francisco, Director of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism, and the Hawaii Sister-State Committee Chair.