What's Being Discussed

The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) is holding a special virtual meeting on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. The meeting has a single main topic:

• Whether to ask the Governor to declare a Tourism Emergency under Hawaii state law (HRS §201B-9(a)). This law allows the HTA board to formally request that the Governor take emergency action related to tourism in Hawaii.

The meeting will be held via Zoom and can also be viewed in person at the HTA office lobby at 1801 Kalākaua Avenue, Honolulu.

Decisions Expected

• The board is expected to vote on whether to officially request a Tourism Emergency Declaration from the Governor. This is a significant formal action that could trigger special government powers or resources related to Hawaii's tourism industry.

Who Should Pay Attention

• Tourism industry workers and businesses — including hotels, tour operators, and hospitality employers
• Hawaii residents concerned about the health of the state's economy, which relies heavily on tourism
• Community members interested in how the state responds to tourism-related crises

Members of the public are welcome to testify on this item. Oral comments are limited to five minutes per person. Written testimony can be submitted by email to Carole.M.Hagihara@hawaii.gov. For disability accommodations, contact Carole Hagihara-Loo at (808) 973-2289 at least five days before the meeting.