HI SR108

Directs the Director of Human Resources Development to develop and implement a comprehensive pre-tax public transportation benefit program that equalizes transportation benefits for all state employees regardless of transportation mode.

Addresses disparity where state employees receive subsidized parking (at one-third public rate, $30-$60/month in Honolulu) with pre-tax payroll deductions, while public transit passes cost $60/month with no subsidy and alternative transportation modes receive no benefits.

Requires the program to provide comparable pre-tax benefits or subsidies for public transportation, walking, biking, and car-sharing to encourage alternative transportation use and equitable employee compensation.

Mandates submission of a progress report to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2016 Regular Session convening.

References Section 132(f) of the Internal Revenue Code and Act 45 (Session Laws of Hawaii 2012) authorizing transportation benefit programs.