Bill > HR75

This Resolution requests the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to conduct a comprehensive study of the "Made in Hawaii" and "Hawaii Made" branding programs, which are designed to promote and protect products genuinely manufactured or produced within the State of Hawaii. The study aims to assess past efforts, compare the current and potential value of these brands for Hawaii manufacturers, and identify best practices for their promotion and enforcement. Following the study, DBEDT is tasked with developing a plan to encourage and enforce the use of these brands, which includes creating a marketable "Hawaii Made" brand that reflects cultural values and community concerns, establishing clear enforcement procedures with powers like inspections and fines, and proposing incentives such as tax credits or grants to encourage businesses to obtain certification. The resolution acknowledges existing legislation, such as Act 153 and Act 2, which have established rules for place-of-origin labeling and created the "Hawaii Made" program, but also highlights concerns about overlapping jurisdictions and the lack of statutory enforcement authority for the "Hawaii Made" trademark. Finally, DBEDT is required to submit a report of its findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the Legislature by a specific date.