HI SB763

Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT), in consultation with the Department of Agriculture, shall conduct a study assessing the impacts of companies using place-based marketing (Hawaii names/branding) without material ties to the State.

Study shall calculate gross domestic product lost from non-sale of Hawaii-grown fresh foods and consumer packaged goods, and assess economic impact on Hawaii's agricultural community and local businesses.

"Material ties" defined as ingredients grown or sourced in Hawaii and explicitly marketed as such; "place-based marketing" includes Hawaiian island names, districts, or "Hawaiian" product labeling.

DBEDT shall submit findings report to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2020 regular session convening.

Appropriates $150,000 from general revenues for fiscal year 2019-2020 to fund the study, effective July 1, 2019.