S.R. NO. 223 Summary

• Hawaii Tourism Authority is requested to conduct a study identifying and addressing tourism impacts on communities statewide, with findings due to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2021 Regular Session convenes.

• Study must identify and prioritize tourism-related issues affecting communities, specific sites where impacts are prevalent, and applicable federal, state, and county agencies with jurisdiction to address issues.

• Study must develop processes to address identified issues, determine necessary resources and staffing, facilitate multi-year stakeholder discussions, and assist communities in developing solutions.

• Study must identify funding sources to address tourism impacts, including existing funds that may be reallocated.

• Resolution cites Hawaii's tourism economy generating over $17 billion in visitor spending in 2018 and over $2 billion in tax revenue in 2019, while noting resident support for tourism declined from 80% in 2010 to 59% in 2018.