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Bill

Bill

HB 1991

RELATING TO THE LIQUOR TAX.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 9 co-sponsors

Hawaii bill HB 1991 modifies liquor tax rates to adjust state revenue and potentially influence consumption patterns through price mechanisms.

The committee on CPC recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 10 Ayes: Representative(s) Matayoshi, Grandinetti, Chun, Ilagan, Ichiyama, Lowen, Marten, Tam, Pierick; Ayes with reservations: Representative(s) Iwamoto; Noes: none; and 1 Excused: Representative(s) Kong.
#alcoholbyvolume #liquortax #taxation
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Bill Summary · HB 1991

Legislative bill overview

HB 1991 modifies Hawaii's liquor tax structure, though the specific tax changes are not detailed in the provided legislative history. The bill has advanced through the Consumer Protection and Commerce (CPC) committee with a recommendation to pass, subject to amendments, indicating some modifications were deemed necessary before further consideration.

Why this is important

Liquor taxes directly affect consumer prices, business costs for bars and retailers, and state revenue generation. Changes to these taxes can influence both public health outcomes (through pricing effects on consumption) and the economic viability of Hawaii's hospitality and retail sectors, which are significant to the state's economy.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue vs. affordability balance: Increases to liquor taxes generate state revenue but may disproportionately impact lower-income consumers and increase costs for tourism-dependent businesses
  • Competitive disadvantage: Hawaii's geographic isolation means higher taxes could drive consumers to purchase alcohol elsewhere or online, reducing intended tax revenue
  • Business impact on hospitality sector: Higher taxes on liquor could affect profit margins for bars, restaurants, and retailers already facing labor and operational cost pressures in Hawaii's expensive market

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

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