HI SR35

Urges the Hawaii Tourism Authority to coordinate with the hospitality industry, Corporation for Travel Promotion, and Hawaii's Congressional Delegation to amend the H-1B visa law.

Seeks to expand the definition of "specialized occupation" under H-1B visas to include employees fluent in international visitor languages with cultural and writing skills.

Recognizes tourism as Hawaii's largest economic contributor at approximately 21 percent of gross domestic product, with growing visitor markets from Asia including China, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

Identifies the need for hospitality workers who can communicate at an honorific level with international visitors to create a more welcoming environment and support market diversification.

Directs certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Governor, Hawaii Tourism Authority, Corporation for Travel Promotion, and Hawaii's congressional delegation.