HI HR166

Requests the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to convene a task force to address income inequality in Hawaii.

Task force composition includes at least two economists, two citizen advocates, three state directors (or designees), and four legislative appointees (two from House Speaker, two from Senate President).

Task force must assess income inequality in Hawaii and make recommendations to address its impact on Hawaii families.

Director of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism must submit task force findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2015 Regular Session convenes.

Resolution cites data showing top 1% of Hawaii households increased their income share from 7% in 1975 to 20% in 2005, while top 10% increased from 30-32% to 43% in 2005.