HI HB293

Proposes a constitutional amendment to repeal the counties' exclusive authority over real property taxation, allowing the State to also exercise functions, powers, and duties related to real property taxation.

Modifies Article VIII, Section 3 of the Hawaii Constitution by changing "shall" to "may" and removing "exclusively" to permit both state and county real property taxation authority.

Finds that Hawaii has among the highest income tax rates and lowest real property tax rates nationally, resulting in disproportionate tax burden on residential workers.

Intends to ultimately eliminate personal and business income taxes and replace them with real property taxes, while doubling homeowner and senior exemptions to reduce local residents' tax burden.

Ballot question will ask: "Shall the Hawaii State Constitution be amended to repeal the counties' exclusive authority to exercise functions, powers, and duties relating to the taxation of real property, thereby authorizing both the State and counties to exercise functions, powers, and duties relating to the taxation of real property?"