HI HCR66

Requests the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to study how state and county tax structures affect Hawaii's long-term economic growth and how programs can be equitably funded.

Hawaii ranks 6th highest nationally for state and local taxes per capita and 42nd for business climate, with startup early survival rates the lowest in the country according to the Kauffman Foundation.

The study must include a comprehensive cost of doing business analysis covering taxes, energy, labor, and imported inputs.

DBEDT and the Economic Research Organization at the University of Hawaii (UHERO) are requested to make policy recommendations on realigning tax structures with state and county programs to promote economic growth.

Certified copies of the resolution will be transmitted to the Directors of DBEDT and Taxation, Tax Review Commission Chair, all county mayors, and UHERO's Executive Director.