HI HB1478

Appropriates general revenues to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for fiscal years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 to develop, test, and evaluate unmanned aerial system (drone) technologies through the University of Hawaii's applied research laboratory.

Establishes purpose to generate awareness of unmanned aerial systems' value to Hawaii's economy by creating products such as operation manuals and integration events across multiple business sectors including film, agriculture, tourism, public safety, and education.

Promotes community involvement and creates implementation pathways for unmanned aerial system technologies statewide, building on Hawaii's existing partnership in the Pan Pacific UAS Test Range Complex.

Directs funding to advocate, promote, develop, test, and evaluate unmanned aerial system technologies for potential incorporation into Hawaii's business framework.

Takes effect July 1, 2030.