HB888.DOC

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that the potential for a niche market in the tourism industry with respect to riflery, archery, and hunting is great because of the significant interest from Asian countries, many of which prohibit such activities.

A 2006 "National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation in Florida," revealed nearly six million adult residents and nonresidents enjoyed some form of wildlife-associated recreation throughout that state. The economic impact of outdoor recreation totaled $8,100,000,000 in related factors, including travel, equipment, and various licenses. The ripple effect of the expenditures brought more than $11,000,000 to Florida.

With Hawaii's public and private riflery ranges and galleries and private landowners that support and allow seasonal game hunting and the growing interest and activity in archery, hunting and fishing, the potential of developing a market niche for these activities in the tourism industry is significant if properly identified, developed, and supported by public and private organizations.

SECTION 2. (a) There is established in the department of business, economic development, and tourism a working group to research and report on the viability of attracting tourists to Hawaii to participate in riflery, archery, and hunting activities.

(b) The working group shall consist of fifteen members appointed by the director of business, economic development, and tourism. Members shall be selected to ensure adequate representation of all counties and shall include, but not be limited to, representatives of industries related to riflery, archery, and hunting, community organizations, sports enthusiasts and suppliers, other organizations that are equipment or transportation related, the department of land and natural resources' division of forestry and wildlife, division of aquatic resources, and hunter education program, and state and county law enforcement agencies.

(c) The working group members shall serve without pay; provided that the members shall be reimbursed for reasonable expenses, including travel expenses necessarily incurred in the performance of their official duties.

SECTION 3. The working group shall:

(1) Identify challenges, barriers, and opportunities to promote riflery, archery, and hunting as a niche market in the tourism industry;

(2) Review existing laws and rules pertaining to riflery, archery, and hunting; and

(3) Recommend any changes to existing laws and rules to promote riflery, archery, and hunting as a niche market in the tourism industry.

SECTION 4. The working group shall report its findings and recommendations to the legislature twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2010.

SECTION 5. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

INTRODUCED BY:	_____________________________

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.B. NO.	888
TWENTY-FIFTH LEGISLATURE, 2009
STATE OF HAWAII