Hawaii, a world-class resort, is discussing a plan to impose an island entrance fee to tourists.
According to the Associated Press on the 5th (local time), the Hawaii State House of Representatives is pushing for a bill that would impose an admission fee on tourists in the name of conservation costs.
The bill would require non-Hawaiian tourists aged 15 and older to purchase a one-year tourist permit to visit forests, parks, trails, or other state-owned natural areas. Currently, with the exception of some popular tourist destinations, most state parks and natural areas are free to enter.
Five years after the law comes into force is a guidance period, after which fines are imposed for violations. Holders of a Hawaii driver’s license or state local identification card are exempt. Previously, the state senate passed a bill setting the tourist permit fee at $50 (about 66,000 won).
The Hawaii State House of Representatives is reviewing whether the amount of the tourist permit fee is appropriate.
The fees received from tourists will be used to protect and restore Hawaii’s natural environment.
Recently, Hawaii has been struggling to preserve the natural environment as visitors to popular attractions advertised through social media have increased.
Representative Sean Quinlan of the State House Tourism Committee said, “Twenty years ago, tourists only visited some beaches and Pearl Harbor, but these days they go to see the coconut tree swings they saw on Instagram.” said.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green had previously promised to charge tourists $50 for admission during his campaign last year.
“We need to hold tourists accountable and pay for the impact they have,” said Gov. Greene. The 10 million tourists also need to help maintain the environment,” he stressed.
Source: Donga
Mark Jones is a world traveler and journalist for News Rebeat. With a curious mind and a love of adventure, Mark brings a unique perspective to the latest global events and provides in-depth and thought-provoking coverage of the world at large.