Bill > HR68

This resolution urges the Governor of Hawaii to reconsider his decision to not participate in the Federal Education Freedom Tax Credit Program, a federal initiative set to begin in 2027 that offers a tax credit of up to $1,700 for voluntary donations to certified scholarship granting organizations (SGOs). These SGOs provide scholarships for students eligible for public school but from households earning up to 300% of the area's median income, and the funds can be used for various educational expenses, including private school tuition, tutoring, and support for students with disabilities. The program is funded by private contributions and the federal tax code, not state money, and opting in would provide Hawaii with additional financial resources and more educational choices for families without impacting state revenue or public school funding, especially given Hawaii's current proficiency rates in reading and math and disparities for certain student groups.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HR&billnumber=68&year=2026