HI HB1473

Appropriates $3,000,000 from general revenues for fiscal year 2017-2018 and an additional $3,000,000 for fiscal year 2018-2019 to the University of Hawaii intercollegiate athletic program.

Addresses higher costs unique to University of Hawaii athletics compared to peer institutions, including increased travel expenses to the continental United States and higher scholarship costs due to a higher percentage of nonresident student-athletes.

Recognizes University of Hawaii at Manoa's $5,200,000 cost disadvantage relative to comparable schools and aims to create competitive parity in collegiate athletics.

Acknowledges the economic and cultural benefits of University of Hawaii at Hilo athletics to the island of Hawaii and the state, including tourism revenue from visiting teams and families.

Effective July 1, 2017.