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HR 68

URGING THE GOVERNOR TO RECONSIDER HIS DECISION NOT TO ALLOW HAWAII TO PARTICIPATE IN THE FEDERAL EDUCATION FREEDOM TAX CREDIT PROGRAM.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by David Alcos and 6 co-sponsors

Non-binding resolution urges Hawaii Governor to allow state participation in federal Education Freedom Tax Credit program for private school donations and scholarships.

To be offered.
#education #federaleducationfreedomtaxcredit #governor #scholarships #schoolchoice
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Bill Summary · HR 68

Legislative bill overview

This is a non-binding resolution urging Hawaii's Governor to reverse their decision and allow the state to participate in the federal Education Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC) program. The EFTC allows taxpayers to receive federal tax credits for donations to organizations that provide scholarships for private school tuition, homeschooling, and educational expenses. Hawaii's Governor had previously declined participation in this federal program.

Why is this important

The decision directly affects educational funding mechanisms and parental school choice options in Hawaii. It involves approximately $5 billion in available federal tax credits nationally and determines whether Hawaii families can access federally-incentivized private education funding. This touches core debates about public vs. private education funding, state autonomy in education policy, and accessibility to educational alternatives.

Potential points of contention

  • Public school funding concerns: Critics argue the program diverts resources and student enrollment away from public schools, potentially weakening them, particularly for lower-income families who cannot afford private school co-payments
  • Program accessibility and equity: Opponents question whether tax credit scholarships effectively reach low-income families or primarily benefit middle/upper-income families who already send children to private schools
  • State autonomy vs. federal incentives: Debate over whether accepting federal tax credits represents appropriate federalism or inappropriate federal influence over state education policy and budgeting priorities

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

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