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UPDATE: SATURDAY, APRIL 5

From Hawai’i Arts Alliance
Friday, April 4

“Unfortunately, HB1378-HD2-SD1 passed through the Ways and Means Committee with new amendments that would further increase funding cuts to the arts. This is deeply concerning for our community and the future of arts and culture in Hawai’i.

What’s Next?
The bill is expected to head to conference committee the week after next. If it passes there, it will move to the Governor’s desk for final approval or veto. Good news: Governor Green submitted opposition testimony both times the bill was heard—a strong sign that our voices are being heard at the highest levels.

Join Us for a Critical Arts Advocacy Call
We’ll convene next Thursday to update you in real time, answer questions, and plan next steps as a united front.

Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025
Time: 12:00 -1:00 pm HST
Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/9926262694?omn=91247796811 ”

Stay
Involved

HOW CAN I HELP?

Stay tuned and stay involved. Your advocacy efforts resonated with lawmakers, leading to important discussions about the bill’s impact and they can do so again.

STAY IN THE KNOW

Our partners at Hawai‘i Arts Alliance and HSFCA publish regular Newsletters offering the most up to date information about these critical measures and how to get involved.

About
HB1378

While HB1378-HD2 appears to create new funding for performing arts, which is welcomed and supported by many in the arts community, it has turned into a vehicle to restructure a committed funding source (the Works of Art Special Fund) for HSFCA, which we, as an organization, strongly oppose.

The Works of Art Special Fund supports hundreds of arts and culture programs across the entire state including the Donkey Mill. It’s through the Artist-in-the-Schools program that we are able to serve over 400 West Hawai‘i keiki annually at Kahakai Elementary and Hōlualoa Elementary Schools. Like many DOE schools on Hawaiʻi Island, these are under-resourced, Title I schools that benefit immensely from the invaluable arts education opportunities provided through this program.

Although HB1378-HD2 ultimately passed the hearing on March 13, 2025, we want to recognize those that voted with serious reservations. Their willingness to acknowledge concerns raised by the arts community underscores the importance of continued engagement and advocacy.

Past
Updates

UPDATE: WEEK OF MARCH 24

Please call and email the Senate Ways and Means Committee to urge them NOT to hear HB1378-HD2-SD1. Early outreach can help stop this bill before it moves any further.