THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	3312
THIRTY-SECOND LEGISLATURE, 2024		S.D. 1
STATE OF HAWAII		H.D. 1

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO STATE GESTURE.

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

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that the shaka gesture should be recognized as the official gesture of the State. While multiple origin theories exist, all theories have the shaka developing within the State. More importantly, while multiple Hawaii ethnic cultures and resident groups have contributed varying layers of meaning to the shaka, there is a shared agreement in the shaka's positive sentiments and usage toward sharing aloha, fostering connection, and being pono.

The legislature further finds that the shaka is a key brand symbol for the State, offering influential power to build the State's economy, global brand, and resident pride. As the shaka is now used around the world, this Act ensures that Hawaii retains recognition as the birthplace of the shaka. It is therefore appropriate that the shaka be honored as the official gesture of the State to secure recognition of Hawaii as the shaka's place of origin, preserve the meaning of the shaka as originated in Hawaii, preserve Hawaii's brand association with the gesture, and share the aloha spirit around the world.

Therefore, the purpose of this Act is to adopt, establish, and designate the shaka as the official gesture of the State.

SECTION 2. Chapter 5, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"§5-   State gesture. The shaka is adopted, established, and designated as the official gesture of the State."

SECTION 3. The state foundation on culture and the arts may develop a public work of art related to the shaka and its history to be displayed in a prominent location within the State for residents and visitors to Hawaii.

SECTION 4. New statutory material is underscored.

SECTION 5. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 3000.

Report Title:

Official State Gesture; Shaka; Work of Art

Description:

Adopts, establishes, and designates the shaka as the official gesture of the State. Authorizes the state foundation on culture and the arts to develop a public work of art related to the shaka and its history to be displayed in a prominent location in the State. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

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