Before we dive into this year’s bills, a quick refresher on how the game works.
Hawaiʻi’s Legislature doesn’t sit year-round. It’s constitutionally capped at 60 “working days,” which stretches from mid-January to early May. That puts us on the shorter end nationally. A few states meet most of the year. Most others compress their lawmaking into 30 to 120 days.
We’re in the compressed window now. Hundreds of bills. Hard deadlines. Limited runway.
Plenty touch on hospitality and tourism. Here are a few worth watching:
- TAT Marketing Dedication (HB 1950) – Earmarks funding specifically for marketing.
- $25 per comp room (SB 241) – Would charge hotels for complimentary nights.
- Vacation Rental Enforcement (HB 1590) – Expands tools targeting illegal operators.
- Destination Management Restructure (HB 1947 / SB 2807) – Shifts tourism governance again.
- Michelin Guide Support (SB 2072) – Backs payment to bring Michelin recognition to Hawaiʻi.
If you feel strongly about any of these bills, or even just have a perspective, you can submit testimony directly through the links provided. Look for the orange “Submit Testimony” button.
At a recent conference, Tourism Committee Chairs Senator Lynn DeCoite and Representative Adrian Tam both noted how closely testimony is read and how it can influence discussion and amendments. It’s not symbolic. It’s part of the record, and in a 60-day sprint it is a real way to have influence.
👉 List of Hotel and Tourism Bills to Watch
