Transcript Highlights:

• </c> encounter has had on Kentucky tourism. encounter has had on Kentucky tourism.
• Um, the ark tourism in in our state.
• </c> that's just not how tourism works. that's just not how tourism works.
• </c><00:15:46.800><c> So,</c> That's not how tourism works. So, That's not how tourism works.
• </c> tourism perspective. tourism perspective.

Keywords: Meeting Start: 00:00 Call to Order and Roll Call: 01:04 Approval of June Minutes: 02:35 Ark Encounter Impact: 10 Years: 03:25, 958, all

Summary: The committee met for its second Interim Joint Committee on Tourism, Small Business, and Information Technology meeting, approved the June minutes, and then heard a presentation from representatives of the Ark Encounter on its 10-year anniversary. Eddie Lutz and Anna Katherine Scalf described the Ark as a major tourism anchor in Kentucky, citing nearly 9.3 million total guests, about 1 million annual visitors, 16,871 bus groups, and a largely out-of-region audience. They emphasized that the Ark and the nearby Creation Museum together draw about 1.5 million visitors a year and have helped drive hotel development, restaurant activity, and other tourism spending in Northern Kentucky and surrounding areas. They also previewed future expansion, including a large first-century Jerusalem model in the welcome center and a 40-day Christian music festival with more than 120 concerts. Members asked about the project’s financing, location choice, and business structure. The witnesses said no taxpayer dollars were used to build the Ark, but the project did receive a Kentucky tax incentive/rebate program, which they said helped bring the attraction to the state. They said Kentucky was chosen in part because of the available land off I-75 and because the Ark and Creation Museum are close enough to encourage overnight stays. In response to questions, they explained that Answers in Genesis is the nonprofit parent organization, the Creation Museum is nonprofit, and the Ark Encounter operates as a for-profit entity owned by a nonprofit; revenue comes from ticket sales and events, while development was funded through private donations. They also said staffing can reach about 1,400 employees seasonally, though they did not know the occupational tax details. Several legislators offered supportive comments and personal observations about the Ark’s draw for out-of-state and international visitors, including license plates from many states and stories of travelers extending their stays to visit. The witnesses and members also discussed broader tourism collaboration in Kentucky, including partnerships with Louisville, Lexington, Northern Kentucky attractions, and nearby hotels and businesses that benefit from Ark-related traffic. No votes or formal actions were taken beyond approval of the June minutes.

Transcript Highlights:

• activities, to continue.
• activities, to continue.
• </c> not permit aquarium fish activities not permit aquarium fish activities commercial<01:10:06.440>
• aquarium fish activities to commercial aquarium fish activities to continue<01:10:09.360><c> the</c>
• </c> the engagement of commercial activities the engagement of commercial activities in<02:06:43.320>

Committee: House Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee heard several measures, beginning with SB 946 on wastewater management, which would clarify that the ban on discharging wastewater or raw sewage into state waters after 12/31/26 applies to treatment plants. Testimony was in support from the Department of Health, Maui County Council, Mayor Bisson, and individuals, and no one testified in opposition. SB 849 on wildlife conservation would prohibit intentional taking, harming, or killing of the Hawaiian hawk (ʻio) and increase penalties for taking native aquatic life, wildlife, and land plants; DLNR supported the bill, noting the ʻio was delisted federally in 2020 and that the measure also updates penalties and adds a rehabilitation/community service option. No questions were raised, and the bill drew support testimony only. For SB 330 on invasive species prevention, the Attorney General raised a supremacy clause concern with language requiring state enforcement of federal quarantines and recommended reverting to a prior version with a catchall for federal regulation. The Coordinating Group on Alien Pest Species supported the bill as a way to close a biosecurity gap, while the Department of Agriculture said it supported the intent but wanted to avoid acting without a cooperative agreement with USDA and suggested deleting the portion allowing action without such an agreement. The committee also heard SB 1393 on public land use, which would require the School Facilities Authority to consult with DOE and other agencies before land conveyances or leases and repeal a requirement that DOE transfer title upon request; both SFA and DOE supported the measure, with DOE emphasizing the need for early communication and consultation, and members asked about possible disagreements or stalemates. The committee then heard SB 321 on private roads and ways, which would deem certain privately owned roads and similar ways transferred to adjacent owners or community associations if conditions are met. The Hawaii Land Title Association said the bill as drafted would create uncertainty and proposed a court process to clarify ownership and create a recordable order; written support came from the Mortgage Bankers Association of Hawaii, Hawaii Financial Services Association, and one individual. SB 66 on housing permitting would require permit decisions within 60 days for certain housing projects and deem permits approved in some circumstances; DLNR’s historic preservation office supported the intent but noted county historic preservation roles, OHA suggested amendments to clarify county duties, and DPP opposed the time limits as risky for health and safety reviews, warning about back-and-forth review cycles and possible mismatches between approved plans and field work. Realtors, NAIOP, Hawaii Food Industry Association, Hawaii YIMBY, and the Maui Chamber supported the measure, while Lahaina Strong, Hawaii Good Neighbor, and two individuals opposed it. Finally, the committee heard SB 1170 on expeditious redevelopment of affordable rental housing, which would speed permits for rebuilding permanently affordable multifamily rental housing damaged by natural disasters and exempt certain projects from EIS requirements. HHFDC supported the bill, citing the Front Street Apartments rebuild and the long SMA permit timeline on Maui, and the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development supported the intent while suggesting technical placement of amendments. Testimony in support also came from the Maui Chamber of Commerce and Joe Blanco, who described difficulties rebuilding a project originally developed under older statutory requirements and said the bill’s added language addressed those issues.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> activities it undertakes. activities it undertakes.
• </c> staff to implement our annual tourism staff to implement our annual tourism tourism<01:48:54.320
• We want to get tourism, right? I mean, that's what HDA is: tourism.
• We want to get tourism, right? I Hawaii. We want to get tourism, right?
• </c> mean, that's what HDA is, tourism. mean, that's what HDA is, tourism.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint House Committee on Tourism and Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism held an informational briefing on the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s interim action plans, current projects, contract updates, destination management action plans, and state auditor findings. Interim CEO Caroline Anderson described her role as temporary and said she was focused on identifying problems, gathering information, communicating with stakeholders, and implementing solutions. She said HTA is now operating as a typical state agency subject to state controls, but noted that HTA’s work often involves nontraditional programs that can create process errors. She also said she had directed staff to review the auditor’s findings on the destination management action plan process and that the review was posted publicly. A major topic was the search for a permanent CEO and the agency’s restructuring under SB 1571. HTA board chair Tata Po said he hoped to select a CEO within about four months, with three to six finalists expected in roughly two to two-and-a-half months, and said the job description would largely remain the same except for compensation and reporting changes under the new law. Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism representatives explained that HTA’s board is now advisory and does not approve the budget, while DBEDT retains budget authority. They also said HTA is working with the governor’s office and DBEDT on contract and budget transitions, including a possible shift to a calendar-year process so grantees and contractors have more certainty. Members pressed HTA on staffing, oversight, and accountability, especially around the destination stewardship team and the CNHA/Kilohana and HVCB contracts. HTA said the destination stewardship team supports destination management and product development, including workforce development, sports, and implementation of destination management action plans, and that staff provide direction to contractors rather than simply handing work over to them. Anderson said the stewardship team had 11 people and that the destination management side covered about 15 contracts, while the branding side had three managers overseeing nine contracts. She said the agency had 47 contracts overall and that the major contracts included CNHA/Kilohana and HVCB. Several members criticized HTA’s management history, questioned staffing qualifications and compensation, and expressed concern that the agency had lost public trust. No votes or formal actions were taken during the briefing.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> uh our project has expanded tourism uh our project has expanded tourism along<00:23:53.200><c> uh
• </c> going to make that, uh, Kentucky tourism going to make that, uh, Kentucky tourism video,<00:27:10.640
• </c><00:31:54.880><c> before,</c><00:31:55.120><c> but</c> adventure tourism before, but adventure tourism
• tourism truthfully, adventure tourism economically<00:31:57.600><c> didn't</c><00:31:57.840><c> pan<
• </c> opportunity to activate ambassadors. opportunity to activate ambassadors.

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The subcommittee met with leaders of the First Frontier Appalachian Trail System for an update on trail development, economic impact, and funding needs. Speakers said the system has expanded from 18 to 21 counties over the past year, with interest from additional counties, about 450 miles of trails currently open, and a goal of surpassing 1,000 miles within two years. They described the project as primarily an economic development effort that is already drawing public and private investment, supporting lodging and campground businesses, and creating new enterprises such as guide services, repairs, and recovery services for ATVs. The presentation highlighted permit sales, which began on a soft-launch basis earlier in the year and are now available both physically and online. Permits cost $25 per year for in-state residents and allow riding on First Frontier trails. Officials also discussed landowner agreements, saying the standard license agreement is modeled on Hatfield-McCoy, is favorable to landowners, and can be ended with 60 days’ notice. They said the agreements, along with patrols and cleanup efforts, help address trespassing and illegal dumping while encouraging property owners to participate. Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Captain Jason Sloan reported 638 hours of patrols under the memorandum of agreement since January 1 and said the partnership has focused on safety, enforcement of existing laws, emergency planning, and cleanup support. The group also cited partnerships with the National Forest, Onyx Off-Road, ARC, and Yamaha, and said a Jeep Jamboree in Lee County drew 237 registered participants, mostly from out of state. They said a GNCC race in Knox County is being pursued for spring. The authority requested $3.5 million for the next two-year budget cycle and said it needs additional staffing, including two full-time trail development coordinators and part-time office help, to keep up with growth. Members praised the project’s progress and its potential to boost tourism and regional economic development.

Transcript Highlights:

• We want to thank you for that, for those activities.
• Renteria, you did talk about tourism, Airbnbs, and hotels.
• Rentria, you did talk about tourism, Airbnbs, and hotels.
• But it's another, I think, important activity or economic activity that we can develop between Rocky
• Point and Arizona. ...and Luis, but it's another, I think, important activity or economic activity that

Bills: HB2746 , HB2751 , HB2752 , HB2753

Committee: House International Trade

Keywords: trade offices, committee, Arizona commerce authority, stakeholder input, efficiency, Arizona competes fund, economic development, fund repeal, state finances, state appropriations, Arizona Commerce Authority, job creation, business incentives, commerce authority, public-private partnership, business regulation, Arizona governance, 1182, all

Transcript Highlights:

• He's been active in his union as well as the Muscular District of the Association.
• An act relating to establishing a tourism self-supported assessment program to fund statewide tourism
• Tourism is important across our state.
• This bill is carefully crafted to allow the Tourism Association to assess themselves.
• industry to help promote tourism throughout ...promoted forward by the tourism industry to help promote

Keywords: 904, all

Transcript Highlights:

• He's been active in his union as well as the Muscular District of the Association.
• to fund state tourism.
• Tourism is important across our state.
• This bill is carefully crafted to allow the Tourism Association to assess themselves.
• industry to help promote tourism throughout ...promoted forward by the tourism industry to help promote

Summary: The Senate opened with ceremonial activities, approval of the previous day’s journal, and adoption of Senate Resolution 8689 recognizing March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Senators spoke in strong support of the resolution, emphasizing the importance of inclusion, self-advocacy, family caregivers, and the principle of “nothing about us without us.” The resolution was adopted, and all members’ names were added as sponsors. The chamber also welcomed student visitors and later recognized individuals with developmental disabilities and caregivers in the gallery. The Senate then confirmed several gubernatorial appointments. Charles G. Knutzen was confirmed to the Workforce Education, Investment, Accountability, and Oversight Board by a 48-0 vote. Noah Scartvet was confirmed to the Gambling Commission by a 43-5 vote, and Kelly K. Foucai was confirmed to the Spokane Colleges Board of Trustees by a 48-0 vote. The Senate also considered and confirmed additional appointments while excusing several members from attendance during parts of the day. The chamber spent much of the meeting concurring in House amendments and passing a series of bills. Among the measures approved were bills dealing with clean energy exemptions for certain backup fossil fuel use, police data and body camera/ALPR distinctions, housing and rental assistance flexibility, creation of a cabinet-level Governor’s Office of Indian Affairs with Senate confirmation, school district interfund transfers under financial oversight, civic engagement and voting services, wildfire-resistant home-hardening materials, and technical corrections to prior tax and revenue legislation. Most of these bills passed with clear majorities, though some drew recorded opposition, including Second Substitute Senate Bill 6035 and Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill 6113. The Senate also adopted a striking amendment and passed Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2325, creating a tourism self-supported assessment program. Supporters said the negotiated proposal would improve fiscal transparency and help fund statewide tourism promotion, while opponents raised concerns about the assessment structure. The bill passed after concurrence in the House amendments and final passage by a 43-5 vote. The Senate then returned to the fourth order of business and stood at ease for lunch and caucus.

Transcript Highlights:

• activity, the diverse tourism activity that we see throughout the state would be devastating to some
• Tourism activity that we see throughout the state would be devastating to some economies, literally taking
• And the reason that small towns and urban areas have these types of tourism activities, they are known
• I don't know... tourism activity that we see throughout the state would be devastating to some economies
• And the reason that small towns, urban areas have these type of tourism activities, they are known by

Keywords: 998, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> important to uh locationally active important to uh locationally active companies.<00:31:25.360>
• Uh your activate your ambassadors.
• So, how do you activate that?
• So, how do you activate that?
• So, how do you activate that?

Keywords: Meeting Start 00:00:00 Call to Order and Roll Call 00:00:58 Putting Young Kentuckians to Work: First Year Update 00:04:06 Kentucky Talent Attraction Initiative 00:21:59 Kentucky Manufacturing Extension Partnership 00:57:15, 958, all

Summary: The committee met with a quorum, approved the October minutes, and heard first a progress report on the state-funded “Putting Young Kentuckians to Work” initiative. Workforce leaders from Cumberland Workforce Development Board and Kentucky Works said the HB 1 funding has allowed them to contract with all 10 workforce boards and build new pipelines with high schools, area technology centers, school districts, and community and technical colleges. They reported an end-of-year goal of 3,600 job placements, with 218 placements reported as of October 2025 and enrollment numbers continuing to rise. Testimony emphasized that the program is aimed at disconnected youth and high school seniors, that federal WIOA funds are too limited to support this work alone, and that the flexible state funding has enabled short-term training and placements in fields such as welding, CDL, and CNA. Members asked about barriers to implementation, wage levels, and services for students with disabilities; presenters said the main challenge was building school relationships and that wage growth should improve as students gain more skills and credentials. The committee then received an update on the Kentucky Talent Attraction Initiative. Representatives from Greater Louisville Inc. and Commerce Lexington explained that the General Assembly previously provided $250,000 for a consultant to develop a statewide talent attraction and retention strategy, and that more than 13 organizations across the state support the effort. Development Counsellors International described its research process, including statewide stakeholder engagement, and said the goal is to create a Kentucky talent value proposition that combines job opportunities with quality-of-place messaging. They reported that Kentucky faces a shrinking labor force and a projected national worker shortfall, while internal research found 47% of working-age respondents could consider leaving the state within two years because they are not confident in career opportunities. At the same time, they said 96% of surveyed higher education students would stay if offered a full-time job, and 72% of employers expect to expand staffing in the next two years. The presenters said they are moving from research into messaging and an action plan, and that the strategy should be customized and measurable rather than one-size-fits-all.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> tourism for the long term? tourism for the long term? &gt;&gt; Thank<00:27:43.360><c> you.
• Um, so the Hawaii Tourism question.
• Um it's activations out there.
• </c><00:31:13.039><c> marketing,</c> state less today on tourism marketing, state less today on tourism
• funds come from tourism.

Committee: Senate Economic Development and Tourism

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on a series of economic development, tourism, and tax measures. SB 2411 drew broad support from the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, the University of Hawaiʻi, the Chamber of Commerce, and Retail Merchants, with one technical amendment suggested to change a partnership term from six to seven years. Members asked about implementation and annual costs, and the department said it would follow up with cost information. HB 2583 HD1, relating to economic development and a loan loss program, also received support, but DBED noted the state already has the CBED loan program and suggested the proposal could be placed under that existing framework rather than creating a new program. HB 1612, based on business revitalization task force recommendations, was supported by DBED and several business and advocacy groups, including the Small Business Regulatory Review Board and Grassroot Institute. Testimony emphasized improving Hawaii’s business climate and using a ranking/reporting tool to measure progress, while one senator questioned whether the bill would simply fund another study instead of direct improvements. HB 1613, relating to HTDC, was supported by HTDC, the Chamber of Commerce, and startup and industry representatives who said a permanent marketing/branding specialist would help attract tech talent, founders, and investors; a member asked why the position was not in the budget, and HTDC said federal NIST funding uncertainty affected the request. HB 1614, also on economic development, was supported by HTDC and business groups, and members discussed whether the state was missing federal funds due to lack of matching dollars; HTDC said it was difficult to know, but matching funds could help leverage more federal grants. The committee then took up HB 2590 on taxation for creative industries. The Motion Picture Association and Hawaii Film Alliance strongly supported the bill, saying it would correct GET treatment for payroll service companies, restore motion picture and TV production as manufacturing, and repeal a 2022 provision affecting qualified expenses; the Department of Taxation said it would provide revenue-impact information later. Finally, HB 1950 HD1 on the transient accommodations tax drew strong support from DBED, HTA, the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau, hotel and resort groups, and others, who argued for a dedicated tourism marketing fund and said the state needs more stable, long-term marketing investment. The Tax Foundation opposed the special fund approach, arguing it would reduce legislative flexibility. Members pressed witnesses on the appropriate percentage for the fund, with HTA suggesting 10% to 12% of TAT collections, and the discussion focused on how marketing spending relates to visitor spending, tax revenue, and long-term tourism competitiveness.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> tourism because Oh, sorry. Yes. tourism because Oh, sorry. Yes.
• Some of that is tourism. will slow down. Some of that is tourism.
• , it's tourism and the tourism share of GDP.
• tourism and the tourism share of GDP.
• <01:38:45.440><c> overall</c><01:38:45.760><c> tourism</c> that the the tourism overall tourism that

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• ,</c> losses, this is criminal activity, losses, this is criminal activity, right?
• Tourism, conventions, and sports tourism.
• </c><02:03:30.639><c> I</c><02:03:30.880><c> can</c><02:03:31.040><c> tell</c> related tourism and activity
• I can tell related tourism and activity.
• </c> registering or the type of activity. registering or the type of activity.

Keywords: 910, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Special Committee on Tourism will now come to order. Madam Clerk, please call the roll.
• The Special Committee on Tourism will now go into executive session.
• They were still active, and they wanted to help. And we got through a lot of that.
• The Tourism Committee may be an afterthought to some fellow.
• Chairman, Ranking Member, and members of the Tourism Committee.

Committee: House Special Committee on Tourism

Keywords: 959, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Special Committee on Tourism will now come to order. Madam Clerk, please call the roll.
• The Special Committee on Tourism will now go into executive session.
• The Tourism Committee may be an afterthought to some fellow.
• The Tourism Committee may be an afterthought to some fellow.
• Chairman, Ranking Member, and members of the Tourism Committee.

Committee: House Special Committee on Tourism

Summary: The Special Committee on Tourism first met in executive session and approved House Bill 1651 by a vote of 11-0. The committee then held a public hearing on House Bill 1756, which would designate the first full week in September as “June’s Week” and Rare Pediatric Disease Week in Missouri. Sponsor Representative Steinmeyer described his granddaughter June’s battle with a rare pediatric brain tumor and said the bill is intended to raise awareness of rare pediatric diseases, connect families with support, and encourage media coverage and education. Several witnesses testified in support, including family members and advocates who spoke about the emotional, financial, and diagnostic challenges faced by families dealing with rare childhood illnesses; there was no opposition testimony. Committee members expressed sympathy and support, with several noting the importance of awareness and the lack of pediatric cancer research. Questions focused on why September was chosen and what activities might occur during the week; the sponsor said he wanted the designation to avoid conflict with June’s birthday and to create space for media stories and educational outreach. Supporters emphasized that the bill would not require funding, only recognition, and that it could help families feel less isolated. The committee also heard House Bill 1828, sponsored by Representative Violet, which would authorize state support for maintenance and operations at the Missouri National Veterans Memorial in Perryville when needed and subject to appropriation. The sponsor said the memorial serves veterans and families through reflection, healing, and education, and that the bill follows precedent from other memorial funding arrangements without diverting money from other Veterans Commission priorities. A memorial representative testified that the site has already received significant state-supported construction funding and that the bill would help preserve and maintain the facility. There was no opposition, and the hearing concluded with no further business and adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> require permits for common activities require permits for common activities that<00:20:30.280><c
• </c><00:24:30.040><c> on</c> And you need enough economic activity on And you need enough economic activity
• That's not going to tourism at all.
• </c><00:52:05.560><c> Um</c> activities are going to be there. Um activities are going to be there.
• </c> sports tourism background. sports tourism background.

Committee: Senate Economic Development and Tourism

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee heard multiple governor’s messages for confirmation to the Agribusiness Development Corporation board and one appointment to the Aloha Stadium Authority. For GM 606, David Ige Hinazumi was supported by ADC and DBEDT, with testimony highlighting his private-sector experience, technology background, and ability to help with risk management and finances. He told senators he had attended board meetings since 2018, saw ADC as a state business arm for agriculture, and supported expanding land, facilities, and even aquaculture if resources allowed. Senators asked about ADC’s role relative to the Department of Agriculture, and he said the department’s strength is research/regulatory work while ADC should focus on business development, support, and facilities for farmers and aquaculture businesses. For GM 607, Jason Watts was strongly supported by ADC leadership, DBEDT, and many agricultural and community groups, with one opposing testimony from Hawaii Farm Bureau. Supporters praised his governance, accountability, transparency, and frequent communication with the agency. In questioning, Watts said ADC’s top priority should be increasing land holdings, and he discussed ADC’s role in water systems, including preserving agricultural water sources and inventorying systems statewide. He also said ADC could potentially help small farmers comply with environmental permitting through a broader, regional approach if authorized by the Legislature. The committee also heard from Joshua Uyehara for GM 682, who was supported by ADC, county officials, and farm groups. He said his priorities would be accelerating ADC projects, expanding capacity, and possibly using ADC as a center of expertise for water systems and for helping farmers with environmental requirements; he also said biofuel crops and food production can be complementary, though food should be prioritized when water is constrained. The committee then considered GM 513, Tracy Lester Smith’s appointment to the Aloha Stadium Authority. The stadium authority and DBEDT supported her, citing her experience in NASCAR, boxing, and Bellator MMA as useful for marketing, attracting events, and commercializing the stadium. Smith said she was eager to serve and would bring experience from both the landlord and tenant perspectives, helping the board think about venue operations, sponsorships, and event attraction. Senators asked about improving public perception and execution, and she emphasized accountability, timelines, and building a venue that can draw major sports and entertainment events. No votes or final actions were taken in the portion of the hearing provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• But my question is, by authorizing active and retired ...object, which was the American flag.
• Florida is a value of ours to be welcoming as a state that relies on tourism, right?
• economy and directly impact our tourism businesses here in Tallahassee and around the state.
• economy and directly impact our tourism businesses here in Tallahassee and around the state.
• Visit Pensacola is opposed to the inclusion of tourism development tax in Senate Bill 1664.

Committee: Senate Community Affairs

Summary: The committee took up several claims bills and tax-related measures. It reported favorably SB 20, providing $400,000 in relief to J.N., a minor injured on a Hillsborough County sidewalk, and SB 14, providing $1.7 million to the estate of Pineal Januier after a drowning at a Miami Beach youth center pool. It also approved SB 674, which would let property appraisers, like tax collectors, budget for hiring and retention bonuses with Department of Revenue approval. In each claims bill, the sponsor described the underlying incident, the settlement amount, and the remaining payment sought under sovereign immunity limits; there was no opposition on the claims bills. The bonus bill drew support from property appraisers who said it would help them compete for specialized staff without requiring new appropriations. The committee then considered SJR 1510 and its implementing bill, which would create a new homestead-like property tax benefit for owners who lease a non-homestead property for more than six months as residential rental housing. Supporters said it was intended to encourage more affordable rental housing by extending a $50,000 exemption and Save Our Homes-style assessment cap to qualifying properties. County and city representatives, the Florida League of Cities, and the Florida Association of Counties opposed the proposal, warning of major revenue losses, reduced public safety funding, and tax shifts to other property owners and businesses. Several senators also raised concerns about density, parking, and whether landlords would actually pass savings on to renters. Despite the opposition, both the constitutional amendment and the implementing bill were reported favorably. The committee also approved CS for CS SB 268, as amended to include congressional members, creating a public-records exemption related to certain residential information for elected officials. The First Amendment Foundation opposed it, arguing the bill lacked a sufficient public purpose and could hinder transparency, while senators supporting it cited real threats and harassment against themselves and their families. SB 100, which bans government display of flags representing political viewpoints and allows active or retired military members to use reasonable force to stop desecration of the U.S. flag, also passed after extensive debate. Opponents argued it was vague, unconstitutional, and aimed at pride and other identity-related flags; supporters said government buildings should not display political messages and that the bill protects neutrality. Finally, the committee approved CS/SB 1664, which would require voter reapproval every eight years for local discretionary taxes such as tourist development taxes and local option taxes, with exceptions for pledged bond revenues. Cities, counties, tourism groups, and the restaurant/lodging industry opposed it, saying it would create uncertainty, threaten tourism and infrastructure funding, and complicate long-term planning; Senator Sharief and others said the measure would disrupt existing surtax-backed projects and revenue streams.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> ensure that there's a Nexus to tourism ensure that there's a Nexus to tourism since<00:04:14.079
• Thank you.” to prioritize tourism at the expense of to prioritize tourism at the expense of at<00:17:
• And what happened was tourism continued to boom, right?
• And what happened was tourism continued to boom, right?
• </c><01:13:48.639><c> sen</c> Economic Development and Tourism sen Economic Development and Tourism sen

Committee: Senate Economic Development and Tourism

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism and on Water and Land heard testimony on HB 504, a measure relating to environmental stewardship and funding for natural resource protection and restoration. Supporters included multiple state agencies and advocacy groups, such as DLNR, HTA, Hawaiʻi Ocean Legislative Task Force, Resources Legacy Fund, the Hawaiʻi Climate Action Coalition, and others, who said the bill would create dedicated funding for environmental, climate, and cultural resource needs and help address wildfire, flood, coastal storm, and tourism-related impacts. Several witnesses emphasized that Hawaiʻi’s environmental funding gap is large and that visitor contributions should be directed to stewardship and restoration. Some supporters also urged that the measure be applied equitably across all visitor accommodations and related uses, including cruise ship cabins and state rooms, while a few suggested amendments to broaden coverage or create a working group for implementation. Opposition and concerns focused largely on the bill’s tax structure and legal/administrative issues. The Department of Budget and Finance and the Tax Foundation questioned the reimbursable general obligation bond special fund in part two, suggesting it be converted to a regular special fund or deleted. The Attorney General’s office said part two may violate the single-subject rule in the state constitution and recommended deleting it. The Department of Taxation said the proposed points-and-miles language would be difficult to audit and enforce, and Expedia and others said the proposed tax treatment of loyalty points and certain payment forms would be operationally difficult. Industry witnesses also warned the bill could raise costs in a high-tax destination and asked for more marketing support if the tax is increased. The committee also heard concerns that a new tax on cruise ship cabins could raise federal preemption issues. The chair noted the testimony count as 23 in support, 179 in opposition, and one with comments. No vote was taken in the portion provided, and the hearing ended with questions from senators and agency responses about possible amendments, enforcement, and constitutional concerns.

Transcript Highlights:

• Chairman, my questions are related specifically to tourism.
• This marked the first major investment in statewide tourism development in the state's history.
• Thank you. development and tourism sectors from across the state.
• Companies also reported Into higher-value activities.
• And so that's a really key opportunity for us that we're actively working to address right now.

Summary: The Budget Section’s Commerce and Legal Services division met to review the Department of Commerce base budget and current program activities for the 2027-29 biennium. Legislative Council staff first walked through a new “blue sheet” summary explaining what is included in Commerce’s base budget, with emphasis on salaries, operating costs, and especially grant authority funded largely by federal dollars. Members asked about how grant funding is coordinated across agencies, and staff noted that some programs, such as LIHEAP and UAS-related work, involve interagency collaboration and federal budget authority that may not match exact cash received. Commerce Commissioner Chris Schilke then presented on grant administration, the department’s transparency page, and several grant programs, including Destination Development and Automate ND. Members questioned how many entities apply for grants, what criteria are used, whether return on investment is tracked, and how long grant awards take to reach recipients. A lengthy exchange followed over whether Commerce must follow state procurement law or instead administer grants using its own “best practices” process; the commissioner said the department’s approach was based on legal guidance and competitive grantmaking, while some legislators argued the process should more closely reflect legislative intent. The department also highlighted the North Dakota Development Fund, child care loans, and workforce initiatives. Commerce described Development Fund investments, including examples of successful projects and a child care loan program that has supported 43 active businesses serving 3,754 children. Staff also outlined a new non-primary-sector lending framework and said a workforce and housing sub-cabinet are working on more coordinated statewide strategies. Workforce Director Katie Ralston Howell presented a broad workforce-system assessment, a new shared vision, and task forces focused on simplifying entry, improving warm handoffs, and building a public dashboard of shared metrics; members discussed higher education alignment, career pathways, and the need for better handoffs from schools to employers. No formal votes were taken, and the meeting ended with plans to continue these budget discussions in June, including the Attorney General budget.

Transcript Highlights:

• Tourism is incredibly important to New Hampshire, and the BEA is incredibly important to tourism.
• Tourism is incredibly important to New Hampshire, and the BEA is incredibly important to tourism.
• Tourism is incredibly accomplish.
• involving the tourism.
• involving the tourism.

Committee: House Resources, Recreation and Development

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Aloha, and welcome to the Joint hearing with the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism
• Next is the Hawaii Tourism Authority.
• </c><00:10:10.000><c> same</c> economic development tourism same economic development tourism same request
• </c> others with the Nexus to the tourism others with the Nexus to the tourism industry<00:50:27.480>
• They talk about tourism isn't bouncing back the way it should after COVID.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint hearing covered three measures on the 1 p.m. agenda. SB 817, relating to out-of-state offices, drew support from DBEDT and several community groups, with questions focused on the requested funding, staffing level, whether the office would expand broadly, and whether the Philippines was being singled out. SB 1578, relating to international affairs, received support from DBEDT and the Attorney General, with the chair noting the bill was intended to help DBEDT analyze Hawaii’s international partnerships and plan next steps. SB 1639, establishing Hawaii Beach Day, had limited testimony and was moved along without substantive debate. SB 582, relating to DBEDT, was also heard with support from state agencies and a few individuals, and was described as a vehicle for organizational and funding changes affecting the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, including moving some positions and programming to general funds and narrowing the works-of-art special fund's uses. The committees then took up recommendations. All three measures were advanced with amendments: SB 817 was amended to include technical changes and a defective effective date of July 1, 2025; SB 1578 was amended to address the Attorney General’s concerns, make the commission subject to Senate confirmation, and add technical changes and a defective date; and SB 582 was amended to incorporate provisions from SB 1577, clarify SFCA authority over performing arts, shift SFCA positions and programming to general funds, restrict the works-of-art special fund, and add a defective date. Each committee voted to adopt the chair’s recommendations, with no reservations or no votes noted in the Transportation and Culture and the Arts committee and only Senator Dela Cruz voting no on SB 817 there; in the Economic Development and Tourism committee, SB 817 passed with Senator Kim in reservation and Senator Awa voting no, while SB 1578 and SB 582 passed with Senator Awa voting no. The later 10:00 a.m. agenda hearing focused on SB 1589, relating to the stadium development special fund, and SB 1629, relating to taxation. On SB 1589, the Attorney General asked for clarification of section 3, particularly the proviso about remaining monies lapsing to the general fund if the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District is terminated before completion; the interim stadium manager explained the bill would allow spending of $49.5 million already in the special fund for consultant, construction management, quality assurance, and contingency costs. On SB 1629, testimony was sharply divided: supporters, including film industry and business representatives, said the measure would support local film production, restore prior GET treatment, and help attract studio development; opponents argued the bill was vague, overly favorable to a specific project, and lacked oversight and accountability. The hearing ended with extensive questioning about whether the bill was effectively tailored to a particular studio project and how it related to other film tax credit measures, but no final committee action on SB 1589 or SB 1629 was included in the transcript excerpt.