Bill > SB1344

This bill officially designates the Center for Cultural and Technical Interchange Between East and West, Inc. (East-West Center) as the State of Hawaii Center for Cultural and Technical Interchange Between East and West, Inc., and authorizes annual state general fund appropriations exempt from standard grant requirements. The bill recognizes the East-West Center's significant role in fostering understanding and cooperation between the United States and Asia-Pacific nations, leveraging Hawaii's unique geographical and multicultural position. To receive state funds, the center must meet specific conditions, including being licensed or accredited, complying with anti-discrimination laws, avoiding entertainment or lobbying expenses, being state-incorporated, having clear bylaws, maintaining tax-exempt status, and maintaining a conflict-free governing board. The bill explicitly states that this state support does not compromise the center's autonomy or imply state control over its programs and policies. The legislation aims to provide the East-West Center with more predictable funding to support its international relations, education, and economic development initiatives, acknowledging its longstanding contributions to Hawaii's global engagement since its establishment in 1960.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1344&year=2025