Legislative Roundup
By Bryan Andaya (L&L Drive-Inn/Hawaiian Barbecue), HRA Government Relations Committee
On behalf of our entire industry, there are a number of measures before the 2010 Hawaii State Legislature that the Hawaii Restaurant Association has been monitoring and providing testimony on behalf of our industry through its Government Relations Committee. Mahalo to Victor Lim of McDonald’s, Tom Jones of Gyotaku, and others who have been vital to our efforts again this year!
Unemployment Insurance (UI) Tax Hike – Under current law businesses would see a jump in the amount of UI tax employers would be required to pay, currently $90 per employee, per year, to as much as $1,070 per employee, per year. HB2169 provides some relief by spreading the increase over several years. With our efforts along with the voices of businesses throughout our community, the legislature was able to fast track this bill to the Governor.
Plastic Bag Fee – HB2125 would impose a $.05 fee to be collected for every plastic bag used at the point of sale. Because restaurants use plastic bags for take-out items, the HRA lobbied for an exception for plastic bags used to carry prepared food. However, the bill remains alive and we continue to monitor it to ensure the prepared food exception remains intact.
Foie Gras Ban – HB2170 to ban the sale and distribution of foie gras in Hawaii has been deferred. Recognizing the importance of consumers’ freedom of choice absent health and safety concerns, we opposed this measure.
Soda Tax – HB2153, which would impose a surcharge tax on all soft drinks sold in Hawaii, also has been deferred. We opposed this measure as it singles out our industry and would be detrimental to our business.
Mahalo for your kokua and support! We appreciate your continuing to assist our entire industry by submitting testimony when requested. If you have any questions or concerns you would like addressed, please feel free to contact the HRA office.
Hawaii Restaurant Association
1451 S. King Street #503, Honolulu, HI 96814
(808) 944.9105
