In May, a new bill was signed into law by Hawaii Gov. Josh Green changed the structure of the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Senate Bill 1571, now Act 132, strips the board of its power, by changing it from "a policymaking" board to an "advisory board of directors."
Roughly a month later, Green asked that the entire HTA board to resign, and now, the state Office of Boards and Commissions is seeking new board members.
"Given the board's new advisory role, the governor's previously stated goal is to reset the board and make new appointments that align with both the new mission and the existing processes that govern all boards and commission appointments," said a spokesperson from the office of the governor.
Hawaii marketing continues
Although the Hawaii Tourism Authority board is in the process of finding and appointing new members, the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA), responsible for marketing Hawaii to visitors, said this doesn't stop the work that it does.
"None of this pauses visitor marketing or destination stewardship. It's business as usual at Hawaii Tourism Authority," the HTA said.
Caroline Anderson, who was named interim president and CEO in March, continues to work in her position. "The new board will be responsible for overseeing the search for the new HTA president and CEO, who will be responsible for filling vacant executive positions," the HTA said.
Meanwhile, the board appointments are expected to take some time, as governor appointments must receive Senate confirmation.
"The Governor has not set any deadline to appoint the members of the HTA Advisory Board," the governor's office said. "As is done with all appointments, the opportunity to serve as a volunteer will be advertised publicly and a vetting process will be followed to find the best potential candidates while adhering to the requirements set form in statute."