HI SCR87

Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) is requested to conduct a study on Hawaii's population decline and its potential economic consequences.

Study must include projections of negative economic effects if population decline continues, analysis of reasons for emigration to the mainland, and recommendations to address population decline causes.

Hawaii's population declined by approximately 1,000 people between July 1, 2016 and July 1, 2017, with net outmigration accelerating from 1,443 people (2012-2013) to 13,537 people (2016-2017).

Approximately 45,000 more people left Hawaii for the mainland than moved in between 2010 and 2017, contributing to Hawaii being one of only nine states with population decline.

DBEDT must submit its findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2019 Regular Session convenes.