Bill 118 HR 8219, also known as the Lahaina National Heritage Area Study Act, was introduced in the US Congress with the purpose of conducting a study to determine the feasibility of designating Lahaina, Hawaii as a National Heritage Area. The bill was sponsored by Representative Tulsi Gabbard from Hawaii.
The proposed National Heritage Area would encompass the historic town of Lahaina, which was once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom and played a significant role in the history of Hawaii. The study would assess the cultural, historical, and natural resources of the area, as well as the potential economic benefits of designating Lahaina as a National Heritage Area.
If the study determines that Lahaina meets the criteria for designation, it would be eligible for federal funding and technical assistance to help preserve and promote its cultural heritage. The bill does not guarantee that Lahaina will be designated as a National Heritage Area, but rather seeks to gather information to inform future decisions.
Overall, the Lahaina National Heritage Area Study Act aims to recognize and protect the unique history and culture of Lahaina, Hawaii, while also considering the potential economic impact of designating the area as a National Heritage Area.