HI HR231

Expresses support for reducing the State's surcharge on county collections of the general excise tax for mass transit projects from 10 percent to 5 percent.

Notes that the Department of Taxation has testified it needs only 3 percent of collected revenues to cover collection and administration costs, making the current 10 percent surcharge excessive.

States that a 5 percent surcharge would adequately cover the Department of Taxation's costs and account for potential future increases in collection expenses.

Asserts that reducing the surcharge would increase funds available to counties for mass transit projects, particularly Honolulu's rail system, without raising taxes.

Directs transmission of certified copies to the Governor, Director of Taxation, and the Mayor of each county.