Hawaii’s lawmakers are at it again—proposing a slew of new tax increases that will further burden residents and businesses. From carbon taxes to retail delivery fees, these measures demonstrate a growing disregard for economic freedom and personal responsibility, principles at the heart of the libertarian philosophy.
The Libertarian Perspective: More Taxes, Less Freedom
Libertarians believe in minimal government intervention, lower taxes, and the right of individuals to control their own economic destinies. Higher taxes, particularly those hidden in regulatory fees, undermine these values and place undue financial pressure on already struggling residents and businesses.
Instead of increasing revenue through taxation, legislators should focus on reducing government spending, cutting unnecessary programs, and eliminating barriers to entrepreneurship. Unfortunately, Hawaii’s leadership seems determined to take the opposite approach.
The Tax Proposals Threatening Hawaii’s Economy
This session, several bills represent a direct assault on economic liberty:
HB760 (Carbon Tax): This bill proposes a steep increase in carbon taxes, which will drive up energy costs and disproportionately affect those who can least afford it. While marketed as an environmental measure, it will likely result in higher transportation and electricity costs for everyone.
HB1077 (Green Fee): Pitched as a tax on tourists, this bill will ultimately trickle down to local businesses and residents, increasing costs across the board and harming Hawaii’s tourism-dependent economy.
SB313 (Wealth Asset Tax): A direct attack on financial success, this bill seeks to penalize individuals simply for accumulating wealth. Rather than encouraging investment and growth, it punishes those who have worked hard to achieve financial stability.
SB1124 (50-Cent Retail Delivery Fee): Under the guise of regulating online retail, this bill will make everyday purchases more expensive, adding costs to both consumers and businesses alike.
SB1043 / HB959 (General Excise Tax and Privilege Tax Changes): These bills propose a mix of changes to the General Excise Tax (GET), including exemptions for groceries and medical services but offsetting these with increases elsewhere, making the overall impact a net negative for Hawaii’s residents.
The Real Cost of These Taxes
Hawaii already has one of the highest costs of living in the country. Continually increasing taxes and fees will only drive more residents away, exacerbating the state’s brain drain and population decline. Small businesses, already struggling with high operational costs, will be forced to raise prices or shut down. Tourists, faced with higher fees, may choose to visit more affordable destinations, further damaging the economy.
History has shown that tax hikes rarely achieve their intended revenue goals. Instead, they lead to unintended consequences—job losses, reduced consumer spending, and greater dependence on government assistance.
A Call to Action: Oppose These Bills
If you value economic freedom, personal responsibility, and a government that works for the people rather than against them, it’s time to take a stand. Go to our TAKE ACTION tab to learn how to provide written testimony. Contact your legislators and demand that they oppose the following bills:
HB760 (Carbon Tax)
HB1077 (Green Fee)
SB313 (Wealth Asset Tax)
SB1124 (Retail Delivery Fee)
SB1043 / HB959 (General Excise Tax and Privilege Tax Changes)
Let’s remind our elected officials that higher taxes are not the solution to Hawaii’s economic challenges. Instead, we need policies that reduce the tax burden, encourage business growth, and make our state more affordable for all residents.
Comments