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Bill

Bill

SB 13

RELATING TO THE AQUACULTURE INVESTMENT TAX CREDIT.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lorraine Inouye

Hawaii bill creates tax credits for aquaculture investors to boost the seafood farming industry and economic diversification.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#aquacultureinvestmenttaxcredit
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Bill Summary · SB 13

Legislative bill overview

SB 13 establishes or modifies a tax credit for investments in aquaculture operations in Hawaii. The bill aims to incentivize private sector participation in Hawaii's aquaculture industry by providing tax benefits to qualifying investors. The measure passed committee with amendments and is currently carried over for continued consideration in the 2026 legislative session.

Why is this important

Aquaculture represents a potential economic diversification strategy for Hawaii, offering job creation and food security benefits while potentially reducing the state's reliance on imported seafood. Tax credits can influence investment decisions and capital allocation toward this emerging sector. However, the fiscal impact on state revenues and whether subsidies effectively achieve sustainable industry growth are key policy questions.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal cost: The state revenue impact of the tax credit and whether the benefits justify the foregone tax revenue
  • Industry selectivity: Questions about why aquaculture receives preferential tax treatment compared to other agricultural or economic sectors
  • Environmental concerns: Potential ecological impacts of expanded aquaculture operations (water usage, pollution, marine ecosystem effects) and whether tax incentives adequately account for environmental safeguards
  • Effectiveness: Whether tax credits actually stimulate new investment or primarily benefit operations that would proceed anyway

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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