HI HCR89

Requests the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism to conduct a study on retail sector developments projected for the next five to ten years and analyze retail's economic impact on Hawaii's economy and workforce.

Directs the study to examine current tax policy trends related to retail sales, including the annual tax revenue lost to online retailers.

Requires analysis of retail's impact on gross domestic product, job activity, retail structure and organization, growth trends, and the Hawaii consumer profile.

Notes that retail comprises eighty percent of Hawaii's small businesses, is one of the top three industries, generates significant general excise tax revenue, and creates one in four jobs in the state.

Identifies internet commerce and online marketplaces as a major factor requiring analysis, particularly regarding revenue loss from large online retail entities like Amazon.