HI SB2035

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 226-8(b) to expand visitor industry policies from 8 to 18 enumerated objectives, incorporating regenerative tourism principles into the State Planning Act.

Adds new policies requiring community partnerships for native Hawaiian cultural integrity, protection of sacred and environmentally sensitive sites, and positioning local entrepreneurs in the economic value chain.

Establishes policies to reduce ecological footprint through decreased impacts on beaches, reefs, ocean life, and vacation rental operations, while decreasing dependence on tourism by supporting other economic sectors.

Requires the Hawaii Tourism Authority to coordinate with the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development to update the state tourism functional plan and submit it to the legislature no later than 20 days before the 2023 regular session.

Effective date is July 1, 2050.