THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	3131
THIRTIETH LEGISLATURE, 2020
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO STATE CAPITOL TOURS.

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

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that the Hawaii state capitol is a public building rich with history and significance. Completed in 1969, the capitol building was designed as a modern and functional place of democracy imbued with deep meaning, beauty, and dignity. Meant to recall the birth of the islands from the sea, the unique design of the building offers insight into the State's singular history, shared values, and public priorities.

The legislature also finds that maintaining accessibility to the capitol building and its history for Hawaii's residents, students, and visitors is a meaningful public service that provides visitors to the building with a profound appreciation for the State and the democratic process. The establishment of a state capitol tour program would greatly enhance this service.

The office of the governor of the state of Hawaii previously coordinated and conducted tours of the capitol. However, the position in the governor's office responsible for these tours has been vacant for several years. Although there are options for visitors to take virtual or self-guided tours, it would be beneficial to have permanent staff tasked with coordinating and conducting guided tours and providing information about the state capitol for visitors and school groups. Additionally, the inclusion of volunteer docents, similar to those in place at the Iolani Palace, Honolulu Zoo, and Waikiki Aquarium would be helpful in supporting a state capitol tour program.

The purpose of this Act is to require the governor to administer and facilitate a state capitol tour program, utilizing volunteer docents, to conduct walking tours of the state capitol building.

SECTION 2. The governor of the state of Hawaii shall administer and facilitate a state capitol tour program for walking tours and dissemination of information regarding the Hawaii state capitol building. The program shall consist of tours, conducted by unpaid volunteer docents, throughout areas of the building and grounds that can safely accommodate tour-goers.

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 2020-2021 for costs to administer and facilitate the state capitol tour program pursuant to this Act.

The sum appropriated shall be expended by the office of the governor for the purposes of this Act.

SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2020.

INTRODUCED BY:

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Report Title:

State Capitol Guided Tours; Appropriation

Description:

Requires the governor to implement a state capitol tour program for volunteer docents to conduct tours of the capitol building and grounds. Appropriates funds.

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