Bill > HB441

This bill increases the cigarette tax in Hawaii from 16 cents to 18 cents per cigarette, effective January 1, 2026, with the primary goal of supporting the Hawaii Cancer Research Special Fund. The legislation aims to ensure continued financial support for the University of Hawaii Cancer Center, which is one of only 72 National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer centers in the United States and the only such center serving Hawaii and the Pacific region. The bill specifically allocates the additional 2 cents of tax revenue to the cancer research fund, with a special provision that from now until June 30, 2030, the full 4 cents of tax revenue designated for the fund will be used exclusively for debt service, capital expenditures, and building maintenance for the cancer center. This approach addresses the challenge of declining cigarette tax revenues, which have dropped over 50% due to successful anti-smoking efforts, and helps secure funding for critical cancer research and infrastructure. The bill also maintains existing allocations of cigarette tax revenues to other special funds, including those supporting trauma systems, community health centers, and emergency medical services, ensuring continued funding for these important healthcare initiatives.

Budget and Finance, Education, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=441&year=2025