HI HCR79

Requests the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to study the feasibility of creating an independent county on the island of Molokai

Notes that Molokai has distinctive culture, history, and economic needs distinct from other islands, particularly subsistence agriculture including taro cultivation and fishponds

Identifies challenges for Molokai residents including difficulty attending County of Maui council meetings due to limited inter-island travel options

References a 1998 Maui County Council feasibility study that projected a 3,000 percent increase in property taxes if Molokai became independent

Requires the Department to submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2020 Regular Session convenes