WHEREAS, the United States armed forces have had a significant presence in Hawaii for many decades; and

WHEREAS, the military has not only contributed significantly to the economy of Hawaii, but has provided a sense of security to the people of Hawaii in the post-9/11 world, and particularly during the impending armed conflict with Iraq; and

WHEREAS, the uncertainties and apprehension resulting from the impending conflict with Iraq have had, are having, and will continue to have a particularly devastating psychological impact on military families in the State; and

WHEREAS, the House of Representatives finds that these uncertain times present a unique opportunity for the people of Hawaii to express their gratitude to those of America's armed forces stationed in Hawaii, and to provide them with a fond remembrance long after the conflict passes; and

WHEREAS, a tour of Hawaii, the land of aloha, may be an especially soothing experience for those under the stresses of the impending conflict with Iraq; and

WHEREAS, the House of Representatives is well aware that affordability can be an insurmountable obstacle to the enjoyment of these islands by military families on a strict budget; now, therefore,

BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the Twenty-second Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2003, that the Hawaii Tourism Authority is requested, in partnership with various sectors of Hawaii's tourism industry, to immediately develop and implement a "See Hawaii Throughout Your Assignment in the State," or a similar program, that will provide active duty military personnel assigned to Hawaii and their families with an affordable opportunity, through a program of discounts, to visit Hawaii's many attractions and destinations; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the programs be developed and implemented with the utmost speed as armed conflict looms closer with each passing day; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Hawaii Tourism Authority report back to the Speaker of the House of Representatives as soon as possible on the progress toward developing and implementing the program; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Resolution be transmitted to the chairperson of the Hawaii Tourism Authority, Hawaii Hotel Association, Hawaii Airlines Committee, the Commander, United States Pacific Command, the Retail Merchants of Hawaii, A3H, the Car and Truck Renting and Leasing Association, the Hawaii Activities & Tours Association and the Hawaii Restaurant Association.

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