HI SB349

Establishes the China-Hawaii Economic Council within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to further economic relations between China and Hawaii.

Creates a seven-member China-Hawaii Economic Council Commission appointed by the governor to govern the council; members serve without compensation but receive reimbursement for reasonable expenses.

Requires the commission to appoint an executive director who serves as chief executive officer, must have expertise in China-Hawaii relations and familiarity with both cultures, and may employ additional staff.

Mandates the inaugural China-Hawaii Economic Council general meeting occur by December 31, 2022, with subsequent annual meetings alternating between Hawaii and China covering trade, tourism, education, investment, finance, communication, and culture.

Appropriates an unspecified amount from general revenues for fiscal years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 to fund the council; requires annual reports to the legislature on meeting proceedings and progress toward establishing the council.