HI HB1944

Increases transient accommodations tax (TAT) allocation to the Hawaii Tourism Authority from $3,000,000 to $5,000,000 annually, removing the allocation from the Special Land and Development Fund.

Expands eligible uses of TAT funds to include protection and maintenance of state parks, beaches, trails, and related facilities; planning and construction; operations and maintenance; and strategic plan development costs.

Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to submit an annual list of proposed projects to the Hawaii Tourism Authority beginning July 1, 2021, aligned with the tourism strategic plan.

Mandates the Hawaii Tourism Authority to report annually to the legislature on all projects undertaken for natural resource protection, facility construction, and maintenance, regardless of funding source, commencing with the 2022 legislative session.

Effective date is July 1, 2099.