Funds cuts slated for Hawaii Tourism Authority as lawmakers look to reorganize division

Posted: Apr 22, 2021 / 10:05 pm HST
/. Updated: April 22, 2021 / 10:06 p.m. HST

HONOLULU (KHON2) – Significant budget cuts are planned for the Hawaii Tourism Authority as lawmakers seek reorganization of the department.

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After much back-and-forth, lawmakers agreed on a bill to cut HTA’s budget from $ 79 million to $ 60 million.

“We’re moving the research from HTA to DBEDT because we think it’s more efficient for the state and less duplicative,” said Rep. Sean Quinlan.

While HTA is responsible for marketing Hawaii to the world, it also funds a number of local programs, many of which focus on Hawaiian culture.

The bill agreed on Thursday evening will receive funding for these programs.

“We will preserve the four pillars of the HTA and the cultural mission and maintain all cultural positions.”

Critics of the bill say budget cuts will undo years of work to bring Kamaaina and visitors together.

Legislators will vote again on the measure before going to the governor for final consideration.