Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HR60

Introduced
3/12/26  
Refer
3/18/26  
Report Pass
4/1/26  
Refer
4/1/26  
Report Pass
4/9/26  

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Conduct A Study On The Effect Of State And County Tax Structures And Programs On The Long-term Economic Growth Of The State Of Hawaii.

Impact

This resolution calls upon the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to evaluate the existing tax frameworks and propose adjustments that could foster better economic conditions. The analysis aims to ensure that both new and existing programs are equitably funded and that the high operational costs frequently associated with starting and running a business in Hawaii, such as high taxes and labor costs, are factored into decision-making processes regarding tax policies.

Summary

House Resolution 60 (HR60) seeks to address the long-term economic growth of Hawaii by initiating a comprehensive study of the state's and counties' tax structures and their influence on business investments. The resolution notes that Hawaii's rate of new business formations is growing, but not at a competitive level when compared to the national average. Additionally, the resolution references a notable decline in self-employment and a low survival rate for startups in the state, which raises concerns about the overall business climate.

Conclusion

Through this comprehensive evaluation, the resolution aims to identify actionable solutions and align tax structures more strategically with the needs of Hawaii's economy. The collaboration with the Economic Research Organization at the University of Hawaii signifies an effort to ensure that the findings lead to concrete policy recommendations that ultimately support the long-term growth and sustainability of the state's economic landscape.

Contention

While the resolution itself is primarily a request for study and analysis, it implicates various significant issues, including the potential for tax reform and the reshaping of state and county government programs. The passage of HR60 may spark debates among legislators and stakeholders regarding tax policy adjustments necessary to enhance Hawaii's attractiveness for new businesses and mitigate the challenges that local enterprises face, particularly in a high-cost environment.

Companion Bills

HI HCR66

Same As Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Conduct A Study On The Effect Of State And County Tax Structures And Programs On The Long-term Economic Growth Of The State Of Hawaii.

Previously Filed As

HI HCR192

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Establish A Native Hawaiian Economic Development Working Group.

HI SCR121

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Convene A Tourism And Gaming Working Group.

HI HR114

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Sponsor A Michelin Guide For Restaurants Across The State.

HI HCR118

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Sponsor A Michelin Guide For Restaurants Across The State.

HI SB981

Relating To The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism.

HI HB450

Relating To The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism.

HI SB582

Relating To The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism.

HI HB1407

Relating To The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism.

HI HR201

Requesting The State Of Hawaii To Consider Import Substitution As A Key Strategy For Economic Growth And Diversification.

HI SB33

Relating To The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.