HI HR130

Request for the State Auditor to conduct a management audit of the Hawaii Tourism Authority, which was established in 1998 to serve as the lead state agency for Hawaii's tourism industry.

Hawaii Tourism Authority receives funding from the tourism special fund, allocated from transient accommodations tax collections, and managed approximately $15.6 billion in visitor spending and 8.9 million visitors in 2016.

Auditor's findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, must be submitted to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the 2018 Regular Session.

Resolution cites concerns about the Hawaii Tourism Authority's internal governance practices and the need for increased transparency in the administration of the public agency.

Certified copies of the resolution to be transmitted to the Auditor, Director of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism, and the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Hawaii Tourism Authority.