HI HB2451

Requires all Hawaii counties to implement fare-free public transportation beginning January 1, 2027, eliminating all rider costs on county transit systems.

Establishes annual state reimbursements to counties: $45 million for Honolulu, $5 million each for Hawaii and Maui counties, and $2.5 million for Kauai, with amounts adjusted annually for inflation.

Creates the Fare-Free Public Transportation Tax and Dividend Special Fund, administered by the Department of Taxation, to fund county reimbursements.

Increases the state environmental response, energy, and food security tax on petroleum products from $1.05 to $3.35 per barrel, with $2.30 per barrel directed to the new fare-free transit fund.

Supports Hawaii's 2045 zero emissions clean economy goal by incentivizing public transit use and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from personal vehicles.