Hawaii Proposes $25 Visitor Tax for Environmental Preservation

The tax aims to raise $68 million annually for disaster prevention and environmental restoration efforts.

Hawaiian lawmakers are considering a new $25 tax for visitors to combat environmental damage and offset wildfire damages.
The proposed tax aims to generate $68 million annually for causes like wildfire and flood prevention, coral reef restoration, and land management.
Governor Josh Green emphasizes the tax as a necessary measure to protect Hawaii's environment and increase climate change awareness.
Despite previous failure, the bill has renewed support amid concerns over environmental degradation and overtourism.
Alternatives such as increasing the Transient Accommodations Tax or implementing year-long licenses for parks and trails are also under discussion.