2006 Legislature is Pau

Song-filled adjournment at the House yesterday (Photo: Hnl Star Bulletin)

Hawaii's 2006 legislative session came to a close yesterday. The state's $600 million surplus has now been allocated and spoken for, with public schools getting $303 million and health and human services, the University of Hawaii, affordable housing, taxpayer relief, alternative energy, disaster preparedness, and agriculture getting the rest. Also, the gas cap was suspended, the cigarette tax was upped, prohibition of smoking spread to bars and other public places, and latitude in using wiretap evidence was widened. I feel like I'm forgetting something though...um...oh yeah, that's right: a 15-20% film tax credit was passed! If the Governor signs it into law, it will take effect July 1, 2006.

>> State legislators close out 'a great year' [Hnl Advertiser, 5/5/06]
>> Legislators repeal gas cap and pass tax measures on last day [Hnl Star Bulletin, 5/5/06]

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