Bill > SB1144

This bill addresses transparency in pricing for transient accommodations (such as hotels, motels, and short-term rentals) in Hawaii by requiring that all resort fees and government-imposed taxes and fees be included in the displayed price before a consumer makes a reservation. Specifically, the bill mandates that transient accommodations brokers and other entities must show the total price upfront, including all mandatory resort fees and applicable taxes (such as those levied under chapters 237 and 237D, and county transient accommodations taxes). The legislation aims to prevent consumers from being misled by hidden fees and to create a level playing field across the tourism industry. Violations of these requirements can result in civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation, which can be enforced by the attorney general or county prosecuting attorneys. The bill defines key terms like "resort fee," "transient accommodations," and "transient accommodations broker" using existing legal definitions, and is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, giving businesses time to adapt to the new pricing transparency requirements.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1144&year=2025