HI SB1155

Transfers film industry development and marketing responsibilities from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, including the Film Industry Branch.

Establishes a new Film Development and Marketing Special Fund in the Hawaii Tourism Authority to support film office operations, low-interest loans for film development, and grant programs for eligible Hawaii film projects.

Creates consolidated permit processing system allowing the Hawaii Tourism Authority to approve and issue film permits for productions on state and county lands, with authority to coordinate with relevant agencies.

Defines "eligible Hawaii project" as requiring at least 75% of production costs (excluding salaries for producer, director, writer, and actors) to be spent on goods and services from Hawaii-based vendors and suppliers.

Transfers all film-related employees, records, equipment, and appropriations from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, with employees retaining civil service status and benefits.