H.B. 1959 Summary

• Establishes the Aerospace and Aeronautics Development Program within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to coordinate and promote aerospace and aeronautics industries in Hawaii.

• Requires a director appointed by the governor with space-related expertise to oversee planning, evaluation, and coordination of space activities across fields including applied optics, astronomy, aviation, environmental monitoring, remote sensing, and commercial space launch.

• Grants the director authority to forge partnerships between the University of Hawaii and private businesses, facilitate technology transfer, assist with international partnerships, and serve as a clearinghouse for aerospace-related information.

• Prohibits the program from authorizing or facilitating the launch of any space vehicle carrying weapons of destruction, nuclear waste materials, or radioactive power sources from Hawaii.

• Takes effect January 1, 2060.