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SB 1444

RELATING TO THE GENERAL EXCISE TAX.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

Hawaii bill modifying its General Excise Tax advanced through committee with amendments, affecting state revenue and business tax obligations statewide.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · SB 1444

Legislative bill overview

SB 1444 modifies Hawaii's General Excise Tax (GET), a broad-based tax applied to most business transactions in the state. The bill passed initial committee review with amendments in February 2025 and was carried over to the 2026 legislative session for further consideration, indicating substantive changes are under discussion.

Why is this important

The General Excise Tax is one of Hawaii's primary revenue sources, affecting nearly all economic activity in the state. Modifications to GET structure impact business operating costs, consumer prices, state revenues, and economic competitiveness, making this legislation significant for Hawaii's fiscal health and economic policy.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax rate or base changes: GET modifications typically affect either the tax rate or which transactions are taxable, creating winners and losers among different business sectors and consumers
  • Regressivity concerns: The GET is considered regressive (disproportionately burdening lower-income households), so changes could either worsen or improve this dynamic depending on the amendment direction
  • Business competitiveness: Hawaii's GET structure affects operating costs; changes could influence business location decisions and interstate commerce considerations

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

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