HI SR97

Urges the Division of State Parks within the Department of Land and Natural Resources to convene a task force focused on improving state parks and developing branding and narratives for parks, landmarks, and significant places statewide.

Task force membership would include the State Parks Administrator as chair, representatives from DBEDT, Hawaii Tourism Authority, UH Community Design Center, a cultural advisor, legislative committee chairs, and additional members as needed.

Task force is requested to examine national best practices for park infrastructure, visitor experience, and maintenance standards, as well as successful branding and retail strategies used by entities like California State Parks and NASA.

Any branding, art, and narratives developed must appropriately reflect the cultural heritage, historical significance, environmental character, and community identity of Hawaii's places.

Task force would submit findings and recommendations, including proposed legislation, to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2027 Regular Session.