HI SCR26

Supports the Native Hawaiian Intellectual Property Working Group's request for additional resources and a timeline extension through fiscal year 2026-2027 to complete its work

The Working Group was originally established by H.C.R. No. 108 (2023) to develop solutions to prevent inappropriate appropriation of Native Hawaiian intellectual property, with recommendations originally due before the 2025 legislative session

Additional time is needed to conduct culturally appropriate community consultations to ensure solutions reflect Native Hawaiian communities' collective aspirations and concerns

The Working Group includes representatives from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation, Ka Huli Ao Center for Excellence in Native Hawaiian Law, and other Native Hawaiian organizations

Hawaii's creative industries contribute $5.6 billion in gross domestic product, highlighting the economic importance of preserving the integrity and authenticity of Native Hawaiian cultural intellectual property