Bill > HB504

This bill proposes several significant environmental and tourism-related measures aimed at supporting Hawaii's natural resources and tourism industry. The bill introduces a new $20 per passenger tax for commercial passenger vessels starting January 1, 2027, and expands the definition of "transient accommodations" to include commercial passenger vessels and additional types of lodging. It establishes a Transient Accommodations Tax Enforcement Working Group to recommend best practices for tax collection, and requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to transfer all agricultural leases to the Department of Agriculture. The bill appropriates funds to DLNR for environmental stewardship projects focused on protecting and restoring native forests, coastal lands, aquatic resources, and addressing climate change impacts. Additionally, it provides funding to the Hawaii Tourism Authority with a requirement to incrementally increase purchases of local products (30% by 2030 and 50% by 2050). The bill mandates that DLNR submit reports on funded projects, detailing their progress, costs, benefits to visitors, and environmental impact. These measures are intended to generate revenue for environmental preservation, promote sustainable tourism, and support Hawaii's unique ecosystem while balancing the needs of visitors and local communities.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=504&year=2026