Bill > SCR158

This concurrent resolution urges the Governor of Hawaii to reconsider his decision to not participate in the Federal Education Freedom Tax Credit Program, which is set to begin in 2027. This federal program offers a tax credit of up to $1,700 for voluntary donations to certified scholarship granting organizations (SGOs), which are charities that use at least 90% of their funds for scholarships. These scholarships are intended for students eligible to attend public schools and whose families earn no more than 300% of the area's median income, and can be used for various educational expenses like private school tuition, tutoring, and support for students with disabilities. The program is funded by private contributions and the federal tax code, not state funds, and opting in would provide Hawaii with additional financial resources and educational choices for families without impacting state revenue or public school funding. Twenty-three other states have already chosen to participate, and without Hawaii's participation, donations made by Hawaii residents would benefit SGOs and students in participating states instead of those within Hawaii.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SCR&billnumber=158&year=2026