Sen. Maile Shimabukuro

Proposes a constitutional amendment to allow individuals who are seventeen years of age but will be eighteen years of age on or before the next state or local general election to vote at the state or local primary election immediately preceding the state or local general election by which the citizen will attain the age of eighteen.

Prohibits the issuance of new building permits unless it is established that the building will be furnished with equipment that allows for the collection and future use of gray water. Provides for exemptions. Takes effect on 1/1/2020. (SD1)

Alters the makeup of the contractors license board to include fifteen members, eight of which to have been engaged in contracting in the State for at least five years and seven of which shall be members of the public who are not licensed contractors.

Amends the date of filing of monthly, quarterly, semiannual, and annual general excise tax returns from the 20th day of the respective applicable month to the last day of the month. Applies to tax periods beginning after 12/31/17. (SD1)

Establishes the exclusive jurisdiction of the small claims division of the district court over cases in which the amount claimed is $1,000 or less exclusive of interest and costs. Expands the small claims division's jurisdiction over personal property cases to include any personal property worth $5,000 or less.

Removes the limit on the number of board members allowed to have private discussions regarding the selection of the board's officers.

Increases the rates for certain conveyance tax categories. Increases the percentage of conveyance tax to be paid into the rental housing revolving fund for the financing of affordable rental housing development. Repeals the statutory cap on the disposition of conveyance taxes dedicated for deposit into the rental housing revolving fund. (SD1)

Establishes an income tax credit for taxpayers who purchase and install eligible energy storage systems. The amount of credit depends on type of system installed, filing status, and federal AGI of taxpayer. Excess credit may carry-over to subsequent tax years or is refundable under certain conditions. Applies to taxable years after 12/31/2017. Sunsets tax credit 12/31/2035. Requires the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to conduct a study and submit a report to the Legislature regarding the usage of energy storage systems. Amends reusable energy technologies tax credit to harmonize definitions. (SD1)

Makes an appropriation, subject to the availability of matching funds, to UH to conduct any studies necessary to ascertain the feasibility and benefits of establishing a small satellite launch and processing facility in the State, as well as to conduct any related public outreach programs.

Allocates money from the tourism special fund to help fund the intercollegiate athletic programs at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and University of Hawaii at Hilo to offset the higher costs that the University of Hawaii must pay for athletics compared to peer institutions. Repeals 6/30/2019. (SD1)