Bill > SB1578

This bill makes several significant changes to Hawaii's international engagement strategy and institutional framework. It officially designates the East-West Center as the "Center for Cultural and Technical Interchange Between East and West, Inc." and exempts its state fund appropriations from certain standard requirements, while establishing specific conditions for receiving state funds. The bill renames the Hawaii Sister-State Committee to the Hawaii Sister-State and International Partnerships Commission, expanding its membership and purpose to more strategically support international relationships. It requires the Office of International Affairs to provide support to this new commission and expands the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism's authority to establish out-of-state facilities that can support sister-state partnerships, generate revenue, and promote cultural and economic exchanges. The legislation appropriates $200,000 for developing an updated international engagement strategy and $4,000,000 to support the East-West Center's international programs, reflecting Hawaii's commitment to maintaining and strengthening its global connections, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. The bill recognizes the changing landscape of international relations and aims to ensure Hawaii can continue to benefit from and contribute to global partnerships in the 21st century.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1578&year=2025