Informing the Legislature that on June 28, 2024, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB2659 SD1 HD1 CD1 (ACT 128).

This bill, signed into law by Governor Josh Green on June 28, 2024, directs the state tourism authority to update its functional plan to align with broader economic and sustainability goals. It establishes new policies to improve visitor destinations through science and technology while ensuring tourism activities respect the social and economic needs of local residents. The legislation also mandates the creation of community partnerships that protect Native Hawaiian cultural integrity and natural resources, and it aims to increase local employment and leadership opportunities within the visitor industry.