HI SR126

Urges the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts to convene a task force to develop art, branding, and narratives for Hawaii's unique communities, landmarks, parks, and similar areas.

Task force shall consist of the Executive Director of the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts (as chairperson), representatives from the Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of State Parks, Department of Business Economic Development and Tourism Business Development and Support Division, University of Hawaii Community Design Center, a member with cultural advisory expertise, and other appropriate members.

Task force is requested to examine best practices for branding and retail strategies at national parks and cities as models for developing a branding plan suitable for Hawaii.

Task force must submit a report with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2025.

Addresses concern that private companies are profiting from Hawaii merchandise sales that do not always reflect the places, people, and culture being branded.