Budget & Taxes (Sales Tax · Seniors)

SB 2891 exempts grocery purchases made by individuals aged 65 and older from Hawaii's general excise tax. This policy change directly affects seniors who buy groceries, removing a sales tax on these items. The key provision is a targeted tax exemption for grocery sales specifically to this age group. The bill is currently under review by the House Health and Human Services Committee after passing its first reading.

This Senate Resolution (SR 11) urges Hawaii counties to implement a property tax freeze on primary residences for homeowners aged 75 and older. It directly affects senior homeowners in Hawaii, aiming to improve their financial stability amid the state's high cost of living (179 index) and fixed incomes failing to keep pace with inflation. The freeze would apply only to the primary residence and end if the homeowner sells, transfers the property, or no longer owns it. The resolution is non-binding and directs counties to consider this measure, not mandate it.