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Committee reverts SB1571 SD2 to SD1 after concerns about convention center definition and HTA authority
Summary
The committee voted to revert Senate Bill 1571 SD2 to SD1, reinserting language about HTA powers and its advisory role and addressing a contested change to the convention center—s definition.
The House Committee on Tourism voted on March 11, 2025 to revert Senate Bill 1571 SD2 to its SD1 form, reinsert previously removed amendments and restore language clarifying some powers granted to the Hawaii Tourism Authority.
Committee action followed testimony from the Hawaii Tourism Authority and an oral opposition statement from the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement. The council—s representative said they "understand the intent of this legislation," but voiced concerns about section 2—2, which replaces a "Hawaiian sense of place" with a "Hawaii sense of place" in the convention center definition. The representative cited historical disputes over the center's artwork and said the proposed change could have unintended ramifications; the council "stand[s] in opposition." The council specifically referenced Kumuhula Vicky Holt Takamine—s earlier efforts to ensure native Hawaiian representation in the convention center's art.
Chair Tam told the committee the recommendation was to revert the bill to SD1, reinsert language that the powers described in section 201B-3 HRS are granted to HTA except as otherwise provided by law, and reinsert language designating HTA as an advisory board to encourage further discussion. The committee adopted the chair—s recommendation; the chair and vice chair voted aye and the record shows the chair's recommendation was adopted with no recorded no votes or reservations.
The bill also was described as amending eligibility requirements to serve on the HTA Board of Directors and as altering the definition of "convention center facility" for chapter 201B, Hawaii Revised Statutes. Written support from DBEDT and written opposition from HCEA and one individual were noted in the record. The committee recorded no additional in-person testimony beyond the council's oral remarks for this measure.
By reverting the measure to SD1 and restoring prior language, the committee signaled an intent to preserve prior protections and to continue discussion; the transcript does not record final conference language or an implementation timetable.
