HI SR196

Urges establishment of a Native Hawaiian Intellectual Property Working Group to develop policies and legislation protecting Native Hawaiian collective intellectual property rights derived from traditional cultural knowledge and art forms including hula, mele, lei making, weaving, carving, and wayfinding.

Working group shall consist of nine members appointed by the Governor, Speaker of the House, and Senate President (three each) from nominations by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Hawaii State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation, Ka Huli Ao Center for Excellence in Native Hawaiian Law, Kāhuli Leo Leʻa, ʻIhikapalaumaewa Foundation, Kawaihuelani Center for Hawaiian Language, and Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs.

Working group members shall select a chairperson and meet at least monthly to develop solutions preventing inappropriate appropriation of Native Hawaiian intellectual property.

Working group is requested to consult with industry stakeholders including the Creative Industries Division of the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism, and other Native Hawaiian communities and organizations.

Working group shall submit recommendations and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2025 Regular Session convenes.