Dark clouds are looming over Hawaiʻi even as the economy appears to be improving
Economic experts say many people are worse off than they were before the pandemic and a lower unemployment rate is simply masking deeper problems.
Senate panel approves increases in Hawaiʻi estate, conveyance taxes
The measure would also suspend some excise tax exemptions for various industries to generate extra tax revenue.
Hawaiʻi senate committee mulls inheritance and conveyance tax increases
Even after a $1.6 billion federal bailout, a key lawmaker says the state might need more money.
Hawaiʻi lawmakers advance capital gains tax increase
The higher state capital gains tax rates would initially raise more than $57 million extra next year.
To invest in its future, Hawaiʻi needs to raise taxes now
Kicking the can down the road further burdens the taxpayers of tomorrow.
Senate’s tax fairness bill is good for Hawaiʻi—here’s why
Senate Bill 56 accomplishes what most of us would like our tax system to do: It assesses a greater contribution to the public good from those who can afford it.
Require REITs to disclose assets and revenues
So long as these trusts aren’t paying corporate income taxes, they aren’t paying their fair share of taxes.
Here’s how tax increases are shaking out in the Hawaiʻi legislature
Senators moved to raise income taxes on high earners, and the House passed capital gains and inheritance tax increases.
Reform tax system for common good
At this critical time, we must do all we can to ensure our social services providers can keep their doors open and serve those with the greatest need.
Make sure Hawaiʻi’s tax policy is equitable
Tax policy must ensure that the burden of funding our society—of bringing in the revenues we need to give Hawaiʻi’s residents the best and brightest future possible—is spread fairly.
Don’t hurt vulnerable families; make taxes more equitable
There’s a better solution than depriving vulnerable people of the services they desperately need: Raise needed revenue by taxing the wealthy who have not faced the grim financial consequences of the pandemic.
REITs should pay taxes like rest of us
This is the year for our legislature and governor to come together to do what’s best for the state: Make REITs pay state corporate income taxes.
Government spending boosts economy
Hawaiʻi is resilient, and fueled by sufficient funds, the state budget can be the blueprint for a quick recovery.
It’s time for Hawaiʻi to tax the rich
“Tax the Rich” has become a statement about the restructuring of our social and economic priorities, which have been upended by the pandemic.
Gov. David Ige ponders higher fuel and wealth taxes
But tax increases are likely going to be considered by state lawmakers regardless of whether Ige includes such proposals in his detailed budget plan.
REITs should contribute more
REITs own property in the islands with a collective estimated total value of $17 billion but, unlike other businesses, the trusts in Hawaiʻi are effectively exempt from state income tax.
Key Hawaiʻi House committees approve minimum wage increase, earned income credit
The measure would create a refundable earned income tax credit, and increase the state’s food/excise tax credit to $150 per person for families that earn less than $30,000 per year.
Hawaiʻi lawmakers again considering taxing income on REITs
Similar legislation was vetoed by Gov. David Ige in 2019, who warned that it would hurt investment in the islands.
Advocates press for tax on real estate trusts
Real estate investment trusts own a number of landmark properties in Hawaiʻi, and their structure allows them to avoid paying Hawaiʻi’s corporate income tax.
Hawaiʻi lawmakers propose package to reduce income inequality
Lawmakers have announced a joint legislative package they say will benefit Hawaiʻi’s working-class families and individuals.