HI SCR57

Requests the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to conduct a study on population decline in Hawaii and its potential economic consequences.

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

Hawaii's population declined by approximately 3,700 people from July 2017 to July 2018, with net outmigration accelerating from 1,443 people (2012-2013) to 12,430 people (2017-2018).

Between 2010 and 2018, approximately 55,000 more people left Hawaii than moved in from the mainland, with high cost of living and mainland job opportunities cited as primary reasons for emigration.

Department must submit findings and recommendations report to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the convening of the 2020 Regular Session.