KAILUA-KONA — Gov. David Ige signed into law on Tuesday a bill that will alleviate some economic pressure on Hawaii’s working poor who care for minors, the elderly or infirm individuals.
House Bill 1702 — supported by Hawaii Appleseed Center for Law & Economic Justice, PHOCUSED, Hawaii Catholic Charities, ILWU and the Progressive Caucus — increases the household and dependent care services income tax credit for those who qualify as low-income individuals.
“By offsetting the cost of care, it makes caring for a loved one more affordable,” said Rep. Aaron Ling Johanson, who represents Moanalua, Red Hill, Foster Village, Aiea, Fort Shafter, Moanalua Gardens, Aliamanu and Lower Pearlridge on Oahu. “It is a significant statement by the Legislature that we are focused on making Hawaii more affordable, working to reduce poverty, and crafting tax policy that is both fiscally responsible and compassionate.”
The bill represents perhaps the most significant tax relief measure passed as part of a session that was relatively devoid of tax relief measures, according to a press release by the state House of Representatives.