Bill > HR97

This resolution requests the Hawaii Department of Taxation to establish a Tax Amnesty Day, which would provide a one-time opportunity for businesses and individuals to pay their outstanding taxes without incurring additional penalties or fines. The resolution highlights that some taxpayers may have unpaid taxes due to financial hardships, administrative errors, or unintentional noncompliance, and that penalties can discourage people from settling their tax liabilities. Drawing from a previous successful Tax Fresh Start Program in 2009 that collected $14.4 million in back taxes, the resolution asks the Department of Taxation to develop implementation guidelines, conduct public outreach to inform taxpayers about the amnesty, and submit a report to the Legislature detailing the feasibility and potential impact of the Tax Amnesty Day. The ultimate goals are to increase tax compliance, reduce financial burdens on taxpayers, and generate additional revenue for essential government services like education, healthcare, infrastructure, and public safety.

Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HR&billnumber=97&year=2025