Hayes: new film authority and Bill 732 could help — if lawmakers avoid uncertainty

The interview addressed proposed legislative changes including a film authority and an associated investment fund discussed alongside Bill 732. Hayes said the measure aims to centralize decision-making and resources but cautioned that details were changing rapidly.

"It's some type of film authority," Hayes said, describing options for membership and funding. He also warned about a reported sunset schedule that could phase incentives down over several years—"We had that in Louisiana at least 4 times. Sun never set," he said—suggesting lawmakers should avoid introducing uncertainty that would deter long-term industry commitments.

Hayes recommended staffing a dedicated point person or small team to answer producers' operational questions (what expenses qualify, inventory of locations and hotels, vetted service lists) and to proactively contact studios to keep Hawaii on their radar. He said these operational improvements, paired with stable incentives, would improve Hawaii's competitiveness.