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SCR 9

URGING THE COUNTIES TO INITIATE A FREEZE ON PRIMARY RESIDENCE PROPERTY TAXES FOR HOMEOWNERS WHO ARE SEVENTY-FIVE YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER TO CREATE A MORE SECURE FINANCIAL ENVIRONMENT FOR THE IMPACTED POPULATION.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 2 co-sponsors

Resolution urges Hawaii counties to freeze property taxes on primary homes for residents 75+ to improve elderly homeowners' financial security and housing stability.

The committee(s) on EIG recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes in EIG were as follows: 4 Aye(s): Senator(s) Wakai, Chang, DeCoite, Richards; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 1 Excused: Senator(s) Fevella.
#counties #kupunacaucus #kupunapropertyowners #propertytaxfreeze
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Bill Summary · SCR 9

Legislative bill overview

SCR 9 is a non-binding resolution urging Hawaii's counties to implement a property tax freeze on primary residences for homeowners aged 75 and older. The resolution aims to provide financial stability for elderly homeowners by preventing property tax increases on their primary homes.

Why is this important

Property taxes can consume a significant portion of fixed retirement incomes, forcing some elderly homeowners to sell their homes despite owning them outright. This resolution addresses housing security for seniors, a demographic increasingly vulnerable to displacement due to rising property values and tax assessments, particularly relevant in Hawaii's expensive real estate market.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact on counties: A property tax freeze reduces municipal revenue needed for schools, infrastructure, and services—counties would need to offset losses through other revenue sources or spending cuts
  • Fairness and equity concerns: Other vulnerable populations (disabled persons, low-income families) may question why age-based relief excludes them, and younger property owners may view it as unequal tax treatment
  • Implementation complexity: Defining "primary residence," establishing verification systems, and administering the freeze across multiple counties creates bureaucratic challenges and potential loopholes
  • Non-binding nature: As a resolution rather than legislation, counties have no obligation to comply, limiting the bill's practical effectiveness

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

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