S.R. 93 Summary

• Urges the Department of Land and Natural Resources to convene a task force to develop plans for a trail fee pilot program and commercial tour guide certification program for ecologically sustainable tourism in Hawaii.

• Task force membership includes 12 state officials (BLNR Chairperson and State Sustainability Coordinator as co-chairs, plus representatives from Hawaii Tourism Authority, DBEDT, State Parks, Na Ala Hele, Boating and Ocean Recreation, Aha Moku Advisory Committee, and four university chancellors) plus designated representatives from the Hawaii Ecotourism Association, Hawaii Transportation Association, and Activities and Attractions of Hawaii, Inc.

• Task force is urged to consider exempting state residents from trail fees and dedicating collected fees to maintenance and preservation of hiking trails, parks, and waterways.

• Task force is urged to evaluate whether commercial tour guides should obtain permits, licenses, or meet minimum requirements to demonstrate understanding of ecologically sustainable tourism principles.

• Task force must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2021 Regular Session convenes.