SB 3007: Office of Community Culture, Arts, and Innovation; DBEDT; Establishment; Positions; Reports; Appropriation

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO CULTURE AND ARTS.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that culture, arts, and history are essential pillars of Hawaii's identity and are vital to building vibrant, resilient, and connected communities.  The State has long supported these efforts through the state foundation on culture and the arts, which plays an important role in promoting the arts and expanding access for residents statewide.

     The legislature further finds that jurisdictions around the world have advanced innovative, place-based strategies that integrate culture, arts, and history into planning, infrastructure, and community development, resulting in stronger public spaces, increased economic activity, and more dynamic and inclusive communities.

     The legislature also finds that Hawaii can build upon its existing foundation by expanding its capacity to support creative community development, foster cross-sector collaboration, and advance projects that meaningfully integrate culture and the arts into the fabric of everyday life.

     Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to establish the office of community culture, arts, and innovation as a sister entity to the state foundation on culture and the arts to broaden and strengthen the State's creative portfolio.  The office shall identify and advance best practices; support state agencies and community partners in implementing innovative, place-based strategies; and prioritize projects that enhance public spaces, strengthen community connections, and improve quality of life across the State.

     The office shall also establish a community and cultural partnership program to serve as a resource for communities statewide.  The program shall support efforts that preserve and elevate cultural and historical assets, stimulate social and economic activity, and catalyze positive, community-driven change, with projects serving as scalable models for replication in other communities, as appropriate.

     SECTION 2.  Chapter 201, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new part to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"Part     .  Office of Community Culture, ARTS, and Innovation

     §201-A  Definitions.  As used in this part:

     "Executive director" means the executive director of the office of community culture, arts, and innovation, appointed pursuant to section 201‑B(b).

     "Office" means the office of community culture, arts, and innovation established pursuant to section 201-B.

     §201-B  Office of community culture, arts, and innovation; established; executive director.  (a)  There is established an office of community culture, arts, and innovation within the department of business, economic development, and tourism for administrative purposes only.

     (b)  The office shall be headed by an executive director who shall be appointed by the governor without regard to chapter 76.  Notwithstanding section 76-16(b)(17), the exemption from chapter 76 under this subsection shall not expire.

     (c)  The executive director may employ staff for the office without regard to chapters 76 and 89; provided that the staff shall be members of the employees' retirement system and shall be eligible to receive the benefits of any employee benefit program generally applicable to officers and employees of the State.  Notwithstanding section 76-16(b)(17), the exemption from chapter 76 under this subsection shall not expire.

     (d)  Department heads may temporarily assign additional employees from existing positions within their departments to the office; provided that the employees shall represent their respective department's needs, assist other departments, or otherwise support the needs of the office during the course of their assignment with the office.

     (e)  The office may provide grants and contract for the provision of programs and services to perform its functions and duties pursuant to section 201-C.

     §201-C  Office of community culture, arts, and innovation; functions and duties.  The office shall:

     (1)  Execute projects and programs related to community improvement as directed by the governor and legislature;

     (2)  Support and assist other state departments and agencies with creative and innovative improvements to their projects, programs, and endeavors to add value to communities;

     (3)  Develop creative and innovative projects, programs, and endeavors and pilot new approaches to add value to communities, their culture, and quality of life;

     (4)  Identify creative and innovative best practices used by other jurisdictions, assess their value to the State, and innovate accordingly;

     (5)  Ensure communication with the state foundation on culture and the arts regarding the office's functions and duties for consistency and better planning for the State; and

     (6)  Adopt rules in accordance with chapter 91 for the purposes of this part.

     §201-D  Annual report.  The office shall submit an annual report summarizing its activities during the preceding year to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of each regular session.  The report shall include:

     (1)  Creative and innovative strategies proposed or employed by other jurisdictions that the office has identified that may have potential benefit for communities in the State;

     (2)  Funds received and expended for the activities of the office from federal, state, private, and philanthropic sources;

     (3)  The office's programs and activities throughout the year;

     (4)  Plans and direction for the coming year; and

     (5)  Any other findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation.

     §201-E  Community and cultural partnership program; established.  (a)  In addition to other duties, the office shall establish a community and cultural partnership program focused on improving communities.  The program shall serve as a community resource to enhance historical culture, stimulate social and economic activity, create positive change in the community, and serve as a template for improvements in other communities, as may be appropriate.

     (b)  The office may contract with one or more entities to administer the community and cultural partnership program and complete the actions required by subsection (c).

     (c)  The program shall endeavor to:

     (1)  Identify and organize community stakeholders and other community-based organizations that may contribute to the community and cultural partnership program;

     (2)  Engage the community to develop improvements that exhibit the area's history from its origins to the present day;

     (3)  Assess the physical, social, and economic conditions of properties and infrastructure in the area;

     (4)  Coordinate with stakeholders to provide for preservation, adaptive reuse, and mixed-use diversity and assist with design and permitting information to help property owners, business owners, and developers who are considering property improvements to best reflect the cultural narrative and historical context of the area;

     (5)  Organize culture and arts and improvement projects to improve and expand public spaces and enhance streets, infrastructure, facades, and vacant storefronts;

     (6)  Organize community culture and arts events, including the closures of streets for events and multi-use purposes that can enhance community life by providing safe and inclusive opportunities for recreation, active transportation, and cultural engagement;

     (7)  Help facilitate the establishment of a business improvement district, or similar organization, and related community services;

     (8)  Seek additional funding to improve the community and help enhance a geographically defined area that actively preserves, showcases, and evolves the cultural, historical, and artistic identity of a community through ongoing cultural practices, local businesses, public spaces, and programming, in a manner that is community-driven, supports economic vitality, and provides authentic, place-based experiences for residents and visitors;

     (9)  Draft a statewide strategic economic and physical revitalization design implementation plan with proposed projects, starting with the Honolulu Chinatown area;

    (10)  Work with appropriate agencies and stakeholders to better design and integrate active, safe, and protected multi-modal pedestrian, bicycle, and public transit through the area, including to any nearby transit hubs or rail stations; and

    (11)  Identify and develop other innovative projects, programming, or improvements to enhance the community."

     SECTION 3.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $300,000 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the establishment of the office of community culture, arts, and innovation, including for the following purposes:

     (1)  The establishment of one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) executive director position;

     (2)  The establishment of one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) specialist position; and

     (3)  Other expenses for the purposes of this Act.

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of business, economic development, and tourism for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 4.  In codifying the new sections added by section 2 of this Act, the revisor of statutes shall substitute appropriate section numbers for the letters used in designating the new sections in this Act.

     SECTION 5.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2026.

Report Title:

Office of Community Culture, Arts, and Innovation; DBEDT; Establishment; Positions; Reports; Appropriation

Description:

Establishes the Office of Community Culture, Arts, and Innovation within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for administrative purposes only.  Requires annual reports to the Legislature.  Appropriates funds for an Executive Director position and Specialist position within the Office of Community Culture, Arts, and Innovation.  Establishes the Community and Cultural Partnership Program.  (CD1)

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO CULTURE AND ARTS.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that the state foundation on culture and the arts was established to promote, perpetuate, and preserve culture and the arts in Hawaii.

     The legislature further finds that numerous other jurisdictions have expanded efforts to improve and enhance communities by deepening the integration of culture, arts, and history into communities through innovative infrastructure projects, programming, and engagement, far beyond what has been done in Hawaii.

     The legislature also finds that communities in Hawaii can similarly benefit by adopting innovative approaches to integrate culture, arts, and history into the planning, redevelopment, infrastructure, and fabric of communities, and that local residents are equally deserving of resulting improved public spaces, neighborhoods, and a better quality of life.

     Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to establish the office of community culture and innovation to seek out the best examples of successful projects, programs, and ideas from other states and countries; assist state agencies with creative and innovative strategies to improve their projects and programs; and focus on prioritizing and implementing community improvements and innovative programs related to culture, arts, and history that build affordable, healthy, and vibrant communities.

     SECTION 2.  Chapter 201, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new part to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"Part     .  Office of Community Culture and Innovation

     §201-A  Definitions.  As used in this part:

     "Executive director" means the executive director of the office of community culture and innovation, appointed pursuant to section 201‑B(b).

     "Office" means the office of community culture and innovation established pursuant to section 201-B.

     §201-B  Office of community culture and innovation; established; executive director.  (a)  There is established an office of community culture and innovation within the department of business, economic development, and tourism for administrative purposes only.

     (b)  The office shall be headed by an executive director who shall be appointed by the governor without regard to chapter 76.  Notwithstanding section 76-16(b)(17), the exemption from chapter 76 under this subsection shall not expire.

     (c)  The executive director may employ staff for the office without regard to chapters 76 and 89; provided that the staff shall be members of the employees' retirement system and shall be eligible to receive the benefits of any employee benefit program generally applicable to officers and employees of the State.  Notwithstanding section 76-16(b)(17), the exemption from chapter 76 under this subsection shall not expire.

     (d)  Department heads may temporarily assign additional employees from existing positions within their departments to the office; provided that the employees shall represent their respective department's needs, assist other departments, or otherwise support the needs of the office during the course of their assignment with the office.

     (e)  The office may contract for the provision of programs and services to perform its functions and duties pursuant to section 201-C.

     §201-C  Office of community culture and innovation; functions and duties.  The office shall:

     (1)  Execute projects and programs related to community improvement as directed by the governor and legislature;

     (2)  Support and assist other state departments and agencies with creative and innovative improvements to their projects, programs, and endeavors to add value to communities;

     (3)  Develop creative and innovative projects, programs, and endeavors and pilot new approaches to add value to communities, their culture, and quality of life;

     (4)  Identify creative and innovative best practices used by other jurisdictions, assess their value to the State, and innovate accordingly;

     (5)  Ensure communication with the foundation regarding the office's functions and duties for consistency and better planning for the State; and

     (6)  Adopt rules in accordance with chapter 91 for the purposes of this part.

     §201-D  Annual report.  The office shall submit an annual report summarizing its activities during the preceding year to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of each regular session.  The report shall include:

     (1)  Creative and innovative strategies proposed or employed by other jurisdictions that the office has identified that may have potential benefit for communities in the State;

     (2)  Funds received and expended for the activities of the office from federal, state, private, and philanthropic sources;

     (3)  The office's programs and activities throughout the year;

     (4)  Plans and direction for the coming year; and

     (5)  Any other findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation.

     §201-E  Community and cultural partnership program; established.  (a)  The office shall establish a community and cultural partnership program focused on improving communities.  The program shall serve as a community resource to enhance historical culture, stimulate social and economic activity, create positive change in the community, and serve as a template for improvements in other communities, as may be appropriate.

     (b)  The office may contract with one or more entities to administer the community and cultural partnership program and complete the actions required by subsection (c).

     (c)  The program shall endeavor to:

     (1)  Identify and organize community stakeholders and other community-based organizations that may contribute to the community and cultural partnership program;

     (2)  Engage the community to develop improvements that exhibit the area's history from its origins to the present day;

     (3)  Assess the physical, social, and economic conditions of properties and infrastructure in the area;

     (4)  Coordinate with stakeholders to provide for preservation, adaptive reuse, and mixed-use diversity and assist with design and permitting information to help property owners, business owners, and developers who are considering property improvements to best reflect the cultural narrative and historical context of the area;

     (5)  Organize culture and arts and improvement projects to improve and expand public spaces and enhance streets, infrastructure, facades, and vacant storefronts;

     (6)  Organize community culture and arts events, including the closures of streets for events and multi-use purposes that can enhance community life by providing safe and inclusive opportunities for recreation, active transportation, and cultural engagement;

     (7)  Help facilitate the establishment of a business improvement district, or similar organization, and related community services;

     (8)  Seek additional funding to improve the community and help enhance the area into a living cultural tourism zone; provided that for the purposes of this paragraph, the term "living cultural tourism zone" means a geographically defined area that actively preserves, showcases, and evolves the cultural, historical, and artistic identity of a community through ongoing cultural practices, local businesses, public spaces, and programming, in a manner that is community-driven, supports economic vitality, and provides authentic, place-based experiences for residents and visitors;

     (9)  Draft a statewide strategic economic and physical revitalization design implementation plan with proposed projects, starting with the Honolulu Chinatown area;

    (10)  Work with appropriate agencies and stakeholders to better design and integrate active, safe, and protected multi-modal pedestrian, bicycle, and public transit through the area, including to any nearby transit hubs or rail stations; and

    (11)  Identify and develop other innovative projects, programming, or improvements to enhance the community."

     SECTION 3.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $           or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the establishment of the office of community culture and innovation, including for the following purposes:

     (1)  The establishment of one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) executive director position;

     (2)  The establishment of one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) specialist position; and

     (3)  Other expenses for the purposes of this Act.

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of business, economic development, and tourism for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 4.  In codifying the new sections added by section 2 of this Act, the revisor of statutes shall substitute appropriate section numbers for the letters used in designating the new sections in this Act.

     SECTION 5.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2050.

Report Title:

Office of Community Culture and Innovation; DBEDT; Establishment; Positions; Reports; Appropriation

Description:

Establishes the Office of Community Culture and Innovation within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for administrative purposes only.  Requires annual reports to the Legislature.  Appropriates funds for an Executive Director position and Specialist position within the Office of Community Culture and Innovation.  Establishes the Community and Cultural Partnerships Program.  Effective 7/1/2050.  (HD1)

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO CULTURE AND ARTS.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that the state foundation on culture and the arts was established to promote, perpetuate, and preserve culture and the arts in Hawaii.

     The legislature further finds that numerous other jurisdictions have expanded efforts to improve and enhance communities by deepening the integration of culture, arts, and history into communities through innovative infrastructure projects, programming, and engagement, far beyond what has been done in Hawaii.

     The legislature also finds that communities in Hawaii can similarly benefit by adopting innovative approaches to integrate culture, arts, and history into the planning, redevelopment, infrastructure, and fabric of communities, and that local residents are equally deserving of resulting improved public spaces, neighborhoods, and a better quality of life.

     Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to establish as an attached office of the state foundation on culture and the arts, the office of community culture and innovation to seek out the best examples of success projects, programs, and ideas from other states and countries; assist state agencies with creative and innovative strategies to improve their projects and programs; and focus on prioritizing and implementing community improvements and innovative programs related to culture, arts, history, and others that build affordable, healthy, and vibrant communities.

     SECTION 2.  Chapter 9, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new part to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"Part     .  Office of Community Culture and Innovation

     §9-A  Definitions.  As used in this part:

     "Office" means the office of community culture and innovation established pursuant to section 9-B.

     "Executive director" means the executive director of the office of community culture and innovation, appointed pursuant to section 9‑B(b).

     §9-B  Office of community culture and innovation; established; executive director.  (a)  There is established an office of community culture and innovation within the foundation for administrative purposes only.

     (b)  The office shall be headed by an executive director who shall be appointed by the governor without regard to chapter 76.  Notwithstanding section 76-16(b)(17), this exemption from chapter 76 shall not expire.

     (c)  The executive director may employ staff for the office without regard to chapters 76 and 89; provided that the staff shall be members of the state employees' retirement system and shall be eligible to receive the benefits of any state employee benefit program generally applicable to officers and employees of the State.  Notwithstanding section 76-16(b)(17), the exemption from chapter 76 shall not expire.

     (d)  Department heads may assign additional employees from existing positions within their departments to the office; provided that the employees shall represent their respective department's needs, assist other departments, or otherwise support the needs of the office during the course of their assignment with the office.

     (e)  The office may contract for the provision of programs and services.

     §9-C  Office of community culture and innovation; functions and duties.  The office shall:

     (1)  Execute projects and programs related to community improvement as directed by the governor and legislature;

     (2)  Support and assist other state departments and agencies with creative and innovative improvements to their projects, programs, and endeavors to add value to communities;

     (3)  Develop creative and innovative projects, programs, and endeavors, and pilot new approaches to add value to communities, their culture, and quality of life; and

     (4)  Identify creative and innovative best practices used by other jurisdictions, assess their value to the State, and innovate accordingly.

     §9-D  Annual report.  The office shall submit an annual report summarizing its activities during the preceding year to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of each regular session.  The report shall include:

     (1)  Creative and innovative strategies proposed or employed by other jurisdictions that the office has identified that may have potential benefit for communities in the State;

     (2)  Funds received and expended for the activities of the office from federal, state, private, and philanthropic sources;

     (3)  The office's programs and activities throughout the year;

     (4)  Plans and direction the coming year; and

     (5)  Any other findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation.

     §9-E  Community and cultural partnership program; established.  (a)  The office shall establish a community and cultural partnership program focused on improving communities.  The program shall serve as a community resource to enhance historical culture, stimulate social and economic activity, create positive change in the community, and serve as a template for improvements in other communities, as may be appropriate.

     (b)  The office may contract with one or more entities to administer the community and cultural partnership program and complete the actions required by subsection (c).

     (c)  The program shall endeavor to:

     (1)  Identify and organize community stakeholders and other community-based organizations that may contribute to the community and cultural partnership program;

     (2)  Engage the community to develop improvements that exhibit the area's history from its origins to the present day;

     (3)  Assess the physical, social, and economic conditions of properties and infrastructure in the area;

     (4)  Coordinate with stakeholders to provide for preservation, adaptive reuse, and mixed-use diversity, and assist with design and permitting information to help property owners, business owners, and developers who are considering property improvements, to best reflect the cultural narrative and historical context of the area;

     (5)  Organize culture and arts and improvement projects to improve and expand public spaces, and enhance streets, infrastructure, facades, and vacant storefronts;

     (6)  Organize community culture and arts events, including the closures of streets for events and multi-use purposes that can enhance community life by providing safe and inclusive opportunities for recreation, active transportation, and cultural engagement;

     (7)  Help facilitate the establishment of a business improvement district, or similar organization, and related community services;

     (8)  Seek additional funding to improve the community and help enhance the area into a living cultural tourism zone;

     (9)  Draft a strategic economic and physical revitalization design implementation plan for the Chinatown area with proposed projects;

    (10)  Work with appropriate agencies and stakeholders to better design and integrate active, safe, and protected multi-modal pedestrian, bicycle, and public transit through the area, including to any nearby transit hubs or rail stations; and

    (11)  Identify and develop other innovative projects, programming, or improvements to enhance the community."

     SECTION 3.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $           or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the establishment of the office of community culture and innovation, including for the following purposes:

     (1)  The establishment of one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) executive director position, exempt from chapter 76, Hawaii Revised Statutes;

     (2)  The establishment of one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) specialist position; and

     (3)  Other expenses for the purposes of this Act.

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the state foundation on culture and the arts for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 4.  There is appropriated out of the works of art special fund the sum of $           or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the preservation and relocation of works of art from Aloha stadium.

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the state foundation on culture and the arts for the purposes of this section.

     SECTION 5.  In codifying the new sections added by section 2 of this Act, the revisor of statutes shall substitute appropriate section numbers for the letters used in designating the new sections in this Act.

     SECTION 6.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2050.

Report Title:

Foundation on Culture and the Arts; Office of Community Culture and Innovation; Establishment; Positions; Reports; Appropriation

Description:

Establishes the Office of Community Culture and Innovation within the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts for administrative purposes only.  Requires annual reports to the Legislature.  Appropriates funds for the establishment of 1 full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) Executive Director position and 1 full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) Specialist position within the Office of Community Culture and Innovation.  Establishes the Community and Cultural Partnerships Program.  Appropriates moneys for the preservation and relocation of works of art from Aloha Stadium.  Effective 7/1/2050.  (SD2)

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO CULTURE AND ARTS.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that government projects and programs serve a vital purpose and exist to meet the needs of the people they serve.  However, those programs are commonly measured solely based on their immediate monetary or measurable impact, neglecting the public value of innovative, creative, but often immeasurable or intangible factors that can meaningfully improve experiences and outcomes for the general public, elevating the overall value of government projects or programs.

     For example, one airport switched to fully electric automated lawn mowers to mow runways.  While it costs the same as employing a person, the mowers run constantly, keeping the grass shorter which reduced the number of bugs in the area.  This in turn reduced the number of birds and aircraft bird strikes, unexpectedly saving millions of dollars in avoided damages, and likely lives.  The automated lawn mowers were also programmed to write messages into the runway grass to welcome landing visitors, making for a memorable landing.

     Some states, including Hawaii, have begun experimenting with creative messages on road signs that add interesting humor to otherwise mundane text.  In other places standard audio announcements have been replaced by comedians recording witty commentary that more effectively reaches listeners and has successfully got people to pay closer attention to public messaging.

     In other examples, states have begun to add creative improvements to public infrastructure.  Rather than stressful queues at places such as DMVs and airport security lines, some have been transformed into interesting experiences.  In one case, those in line at an airport pass through a floor‑to‑ceiling aquarium.  In another, lines pass through passages adorned with LED panels on the walls and ceiling that display nature videos, transforming boredom into a near 360‑degree immersive relaxing experience.  Staff report higher customers satisfaction, fewer instances of anger and physical violence, and now process more customers per hour.

     Some public libraries have been themed to fictional locations, enabling patrons to discover a science fiction section modeled according to Jules Verne's Nautilus submarine from 20,000 Leagues under the Sea or a history section themed like a sitting room on the Titanic.  These libraries have seen public attendance and use spike after these renovations.

     The legislature further finds that an entity with the right expertise dedicated to improving the innovative and creative value of government projects and services would support the State in better fulfilling its duties.

     Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to establish the office of creative innovation to seek out the best examples of success projects, programs, and ideas from other states and countries; assist state agencies with creative and innovative strategies to improve their projects and programs; and execute new projects to add value for public facilities, services, and communities.

     SECTION 2.  Chapter 9, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new part to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"Part     .  Office of Creative innovation

     §9-A  Definitions.  As used in this part:

     "Office" means the office of creative innovation established pursuant to section 9-B.

     "Executive director" means the executive director of the office of creative innovation, appointed pursuant to section 9‑B(b).

     §9-B  Office of creative innovation; established; executive director.  (a)  There is established an office of creative innovation within the foundation for administrative purposes only.

     (b)  The office shall be headed by an executive director who shall be appointed by the governor without regard to chapter 76.  Notwithstanding section 76-16(b)(17), this exemption from chapter 76 shall not expire.

     (c)  The executive director may employ staff for the office without regard to chapters 76 and 89; provided that the staff shall be members of the state employees' retirement system and shall be eligible to receive the benefits of any state employee benefit program generally applicable to officers and employees of the State.  Notwithstanding section 76-16(b)(17), the exemption from chapter 76 shall not expire.

     (d)  Department heads may assign additional employees from existing positions within their departments to the office; provided that the employees shall represent their respective department's needs, assist other departments, or otherwise support the needs of the office during the course of their assignment with the office.

     (e)  The office may contract for the provision of programs and services.

     §9-C  Office of creative innovation; functions and duties.  The office shall:

     (1)  Execute projects and programs as directed by the governor and legislature;

     (2)  Support and assist all state departments and agencies with creative and innovative improvements that add creative value to their projects, programs, and endeavors;

     (3)  Develop creative and innovative projects, programs, and endeavors to add value to quality of life, pilot new approaches, and pursue alternative or nontraditional measures; and

     (4)  Identify creative and innovative best practices used by other jurisdictions, assess their value to the State, and innovate accordingly.

     §9-D  Annual report.  The office shall submit an annual report summarizing its activities during the preceding year to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of each regular session.  The report shall include:

     (1)  Creative and innovative strategies employed by other jurisdictions that the office has identified that may have potential benefit for the State;

     (2)  Funds received and expended for the activities of the office from federal, state, private, and philanthropic sources;

     (3)  The office's programs and activities throughout the year;

     (4)  Plans and direction the coming year; and

     (5)  Any other findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation."

     SECTION 3.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $           or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the establishment of:

     (1)  One full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) executive director position, exempt from chapter 76, Hawaii Revised Statutes;

     (2)  One full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) specialist position; and

     (3)  Other expenses.

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the state foundation on culture and the arts for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 4.  In codifying the new sections added by section 2 of this Act, the revisor of statutes shall substitute appropriate section numbers for the letters used in designating the new sections in this Act.

     SECTION 5.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2026.

Report Title:

Foundation on Culture and the Arts; Office of Creative Innovation; Establishment; Positions; Reports; Appropriation

Description:

Establishes the Office of Creative Innovation within the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts for administrative purposes only.  Requires annual reports to the Legislature.  Appropriates funds for the establishment of one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) Executive Director position and one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) Specialist position within the Office of Creative Innovation.  Effective 7/1/2026.  (SD1)

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

Relating to culture and arts.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that preserving and promoting culture and the arts is a critical state function.  To fulfill this duty, the legislature established the state foundation on culture and the arts in 1965.

     The legislature further finds that an entity dedicated to improving the creative value of government projects and services would support the State in fulfilling its duties.

     Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to establish the office of creative innovation to execute innovative legislative and executive projects and develop creative value for public facilities, services, and communities.

     SECTION 2.  Chapter 9, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new part to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"Part     .  Office of Creative innovation

     §9-A  Definitions.  As used in this part:

     "Office" means the office of creative innovation established pursuant to section 9-B.

     "Executive director" means the executive director of the office of creative innovation, appointed pursuant to section 9‑B(b).

     §9-B  Office of creative innovation; established; executive director.  (a)  There is established an office of creative innovation within the foundation for administrative purposes only.

     (b)  The office shall be headed by an executive director who shall be appointed by the governor without regard to chapter 76.  Notwithstanding section 76-16(b)(17), this exemption from chapter 76 shall not expire.

     (c)  The executive director may employ staff for the office without regard to chapters 76 and 89; provided that the staff shall be members of the state employees' retirement system and shall be eligible to receive the benefits of any state employee benefit program generally applicable to officers and employees of the State.  Notwithstanding section 76-16(b)(17), the exemption from chapter 76 shall not expire.

     (d)  Department heads may assign additional employees from existing positions within their departments to the office; provided that the employees shall represent their respective department's needs, assist other departments, or otherwise support the needs of the office during the course of their assignment with the office.

     §9-C  Office of creative innovation; functions and duties.  The office shall:

     (1)  Execute projects and programs as directed by the governor and legislature;

     (2)  Support and assist all state departments and agencies with creative and innovative improvements to their projects and programs;

     (3)  Develop creative and innovative projects and programs to expand overall value and quality of life to the public, pilot new approaches, and pursue alternative or nontraditional measures; and

     (4)  Identify creative and innovative best practices used by other jurisdictions.

     §9-D  Annual report.  The office shall submit an annual report summarizing its activities during the preceding year to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of each regular session.  The report shall include:

     (1)  Actions taken to address issues, unmet needs, and challenges relating to wellness and resilience;

     (2)  Funds received for the activities of the office from federal, state, private, and philanthropic sources;

     (3)  The office's engagement with community entities and other stakeholders; and

     (4)  Any other findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation."

     SECTION 3.  This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

Report Title:

Foundation on Culture and the Arts; Office of Creative Innovation; Establishment; Reports

Description:

Establishes the Office of Creative Innovation within the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts for administrative purposes only.  Requires annual reports to the Legislature.

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3001

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:     S.B. No. 3007

        S.D. 2

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Ways and Means, to which was referred S.B. No. 3007, S.D. 1, entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO CULTURE AND ARTS,"

begs leave to report as follows:

     The purpose and intent of this measure is to support creative innovation within the State.

     Specifically, the measure:

     (1)  Establishes within the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, the Office of Creative Innovation to identify opportunities to assist state agencies with creative strategies to improve projects and programs; and

     (2)  Appropriates funds for positions and other expenses of the newly created office.

     Your Committee received written comments on this measure from Stanford Carr Development, LLC, and one individual.

     Your Committee finds that communities of the State will benefit from innovative approaches to integrate culture, arts, and history into public works planning, redevelopment, and infrastructure.  Accordingly, your Committee believes that this measure will provide a means to improve the creative value of government projects and services.

     Your Committee has amended this measure by:

     (1)  Renaming the Office of Creative Innovation as the Office of Community Culture and Innovation;

     (2)  Requiring the Office of Community Culture and Innovation to establish a community and cultural partnership program to undertake various community improvement projects;

     (3)  Appropriating an unspecified amount from the works of art special fund, for the preservation or relocation of works of art from Aloha Stadium; and

     (4)  Changing the effective date to July 1, 2050, to facilitate further discussion on the measure.

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Ways and Means that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 3007, S.D. 1, as amended herein, and recommends that it pass Third Reading in the form attached hereto as S.B. No. 3007, S.D. 2.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Ways and Means,

STAND. COM. REP. NO. 2607

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:     S.B. No. 3007

        S.D. 1

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Water, Land, Culture and the Arts, to which was referred S.B. No. 3007 entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO CULTURE AND ARTS,"

begs leave to report as follows:

     The purpose and intent of this measure is to:

     (1)  Establish the Office of Creative Innovation within the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts for administrative purposes only; and

     (2)  Require annual reports to the Legislature.

     Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from one individual.

     Your Committee received comments on this measure from the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts.

     Your Committee finds that public projects and programs provide vital services that are often valued according to their monetary public benefit.  Consequently, immeasurable and intangible factors, including innovation and creativity, are neglected when evaluating these projects and programs.  Enhancing innovative and creative ideas into public projects and programs will engage the public and improve overall experiences and outcomes.  Your Committee further finds that the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts is emblematic of the State's commitment to supporting the arts and preserving culture in the State.  This measure will establish an Office of Creative Innovation within the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts to assist and advise state agencies in developing more creative and innovative strategies, enhancing the overall value and delivery of public projects and programs.

     Your Committee has amended this measure by:

     (1)  Authorizing the Office of Creative Innovation to contract for the provision of programs and services;

     (2)  Clarifying that the functions and duties of the Office of Creative Innovation shall include:

          (A)  Supporting and assisting all state departments and agencies with creative and innovative improvements that add creative value to their projects, programs, and endeavors;

          (B)  Developing creative and innovative projects, programs, and endeavors to add value to quality of life, pilot new approaches, and pursue alternative or nontraditional measures; and

          (C)  Identifying creative and innovative best practices used by other jurisdictions, assessing their value to the State, and innovating accordingly;

     (3)  Specifying that the Office of Creative Innovation's annual report shall include:

          (A)  Creative and innovative strategies employed by other jurisdictions that the Office has identified as having potential benefit for the State;

          (B)  Funds received and expended for the activities of the Office and the source of these funds; and

          (C)  The Office's plans and direction for the coming year;

     (4)  Deleting language that would have required the Office of Creative Innovation's annual report to include:

          (A)  Actions taken to address issues, unmet needs, and challenges relating to wellness and resilience; and

          (B)  Engagement with community entities and other stakeholders;

     (5)  Inserting a blank appropriation amount to be expended by the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts for the establishment of one-full time equivalent (1.0 FTE) Executive Director Position, one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) Specialist position, and other expenses;

     (6)  Inserting legislative findings;

     (7)  Amending section 1 to reflect its amended purpose;

     (8)  Changing its effective date to July 1, 2026; and

     (9)  Making technical, nonsubstantive amendments for the purposes of clarity and consistency.

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Water, Land, Culture and the Arts that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 3007, as amended herein, and recommends that it pass Second Reading in the form attached hereto as S.B. No. 3007, S.D. 1, and be referred to your Committee on Ways and Means.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Water, Land, Culture and the Arts,