ESTABLISHING A SISTER-STATE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE STATE OF HAWAII, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, AND THE PREFECTURE OF YAMAGATA, JAPAN.

This bill establishes a formal sister-state relationship between the State of Hawaii and the Prefecture of Yamagata, Japan, recognizing their shared history of cultural exchange and mutual interests in areas like agriculture, tourism, and sustainability. The resolution encourages both regions to collaborate on specific initiatives including culinary and agricultural exchanges, joint cultural events, education and workforce programs, and sustainable development projects focused on climate resilience and rural revitalization. Implementation will be handled through memoranda of understanding between the Governor of Hawaii and Yamagata Prefecture officials, with the goal of strengthening economic, educational, and cultural ties for residents and businesses in both jurisdictions.