Bill > HCR143

This concurrent resolution strongly urges the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) to encourage all transient accommodations, including hotels, hostels, short-term rentals, and timeshares, to incorporate the Pono Pledge as a mandatory step during guest check-in. The resolution highlights the increasing strain on Hawaii's fragile ecosystem and cultural sites due to irresponsible tourism practices, such as trespassing on sacred lands, disrupting wildlife, and disregarding local customs. The Pono Pledge is a educational tool designed to promote responsible tourism by teaching visitors to respect Hawaii's land, ocean, culture, and local communities. The resolution requests that the HTA develop procedures for guests to take the Pono Pledge, potentially through online platforms, mobile applications, or in-person acknowledgments, and require visitors to provide proof of completing the pledge. By mandating this pledge, the resolution aims to foster a sense of kuleana (responsibility) among tourists and encourage more sustainable, culturally sensitive tourism practices that align with Native Hawaiian values and protect local interests.

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https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HCR&billnumber=143&year=2025