H.B. 19 Summary

• Replaces the Hawaii Tourism Authority with a new nonprofit Corporation for the Stewardship of Hawaii Tourism, effective upon governor's approval.

• Establishes the Corporation as a destination stewardship organization guided by principles of regenerative tourism, prioritizing collaboration with public, private, nonprofit, and community stakeholders to achieve beneficial tourism outcomes.

• Creates a State Destination Stewardship Council (up to 20 voting members plus 6 ex officio members) to oversee the Corporation and appoint its president and chief executive officer, subject to gubernatorial approval.

• Establishes four Island Destination Stewardship Councils (Kauai, Maui Nui, Hawaii County, Oahu) with 15-20 members each appointed by county mayors to develop island-specific stewardship action plans and strategies.

• Transfers all Hawaii Tourism Authority assets, employees, records, and appropriations to the Corporation during a transition period not exceeding three months, and repeals Chapter 201B (Hawaii Tourism Authority statutes).