Bill > SCR259

This Concurrent Resolution urges the Hawaii Tourism Authority to develop and implement a "Visitor Pledge of Aloha," which is a commitment visitors would make to respect and protect Hawaii's unique environment and culture. The resolution highlights the fragility of Hawaii's ecosystems, its many endemic species (species found nowhere else), and the importance of visitors understanding their "kuleana," a Hawaiian concept meaning responsibility or privilege, to honor and respect the islands. It draws inspiration from similar successful pledges in other locations and references an existing pledge developed by Hawaiian students called "A Pledge to Our Keiki," which emphasizes caring for the islands as a family responsibility borrowed from future generations and asks visitors to be mindful of their impact, share respectfully, experience culture with humility, live "aloha" (a Hawaiian concept of love, peace, and compassion), and learn from Hawaii's legacy. The resolution requests that the state adopt this pledge and encourages the Hawaii Tourism Authority to find the best way to ensure all visitors acknowledge it, with certified copies to be sent to relevant state and county officials.