Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 15 - DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM
Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR)
Title 15 – Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism
Overview
Title 15 of the Hawaii Administrative Rules governs the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), a key state agency responsible for promoting economic growth, business development, tourism, and related activities in Hawaii.
The rules under this title provide the framework for DBEDT’s programs, initiatives, and regulatory functions to support Hawaii’s economy and quality of life.
Key Areas Covered in Title 15
1. Organizational Structure
Defines the structure of the DBEDT, including divisions focused on:
Business development
Economic analysis and research
Tourism promotion
Technology and innovation
Energy and sustainability
Describes roles and responsibilities of agency leadership and staff.
2. Business Development and Support Programs
Rules and procedures for programs that provide:
Grants, loans, and incentives to local businesses.
Support for startups and small businesses.
Assistance with export development and market expansion.
Workforce training and development initiatives.
Eligibility criteria and application processes for financial and technical assistance.
3. Tourism Development and Promotion
Guidelines for promoting Hawaii as a tourist destination.
Oversight of marketing campaigns and partnerships with industry stakeholders.
Rules for regulating tourism-related businesses and events.
Support for sustainable tourism practices that protect natural and cultural resources.
4. Economic Research and Data
Procedures for collecting, analyzing, and publishing economic data.
Conducting market studies and forecasts to guide policy and business decisions.
Sharing information with government agencies, businesses, and the public.
5. Technology and Innovation Initiatives
Support for technology development and adoption by businesses.
Programs encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship.
Rules on administering technology grants and collaborations with research institutions.
6. Energy Programs
Promotion of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainability.
Administration of incentives for clean energy projects.
Coordination with state and federal energy agencies.
7. Licensing and Regulatory Functions
Licensing requirements for certain business activities under DBEDT’s jurisdiction.
Enforcement of rules relating to commerce, trade, and economic activities.
Procedures for investigations, hearings, and compliance.
8. Reporting and Accountability
Requirements for reporting by businesses receiving state assistance.
Monitoring and evaluation of program outcomes.
Transparency measures to ensure public trust and effective use of resources.
Summary Table
| Section | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Organizational Structure | Agency divisions and leadership roles |
| Business Support | Grants, loans, eligibility, and application processes |
| Tourism Development | Promotion, marketing, regulation, sustainable tourism |
| Economic Research | Data collection, analysis, forecasting |
| Technology Initiatives | Innovation support, grants, partnerships |
| Energy Programs | Renewable energy promotion, incentives |
| Licensing & Regulation | Business licensing, enforcement, compliance |
| Reporting & Accountability | Program reporting, monitoring, transparency |
Conclusion
The Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 15 empower the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism to foster a thriving and sustainable economy in Hawaii. By outlining clear regulations for business support, tourism, technology, and energy programs, these rules ensure that DBEDT effectively promotes
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