Hawaii Fears Tourism Hit from ESTA Tightening

Hawaii voices concerns over potential ESTA tightening, warning of severe impacts on its vital tourism industry. Officials highlight risks to visitor numbers from stricter U.S. visa waiver rules, which could deter international travelers to the islands' beaches and volcanoes. The state urges balanced policies to protect jobs and economy reliant on global arrivals. As discussions unfold, Hawaii pushes for exemptions or adjustments to safeguard its allure as a Pacific paradise.