Maui Lawmakers Introduce Taxation and Employment Bills

By Wendy Osher

Two measures introduced by Maui lawmakers will be heard before respective house committees today.

West Maui Representative Angus McKelvey introduced a bill this legislative session seeking the establishment of a tax credit for those who hire unemployed or disabled veterans.

House Bill 2146 was introduced after a finding that despite efforts to transition to civilian life, many veterans continued to encounter obstacles–including service related disabilities that have led to critical gaps in finding employment.

The measure goes before the house committee on Economic Revitalization and Business today.

Rep. Kyle Yamashita. File photo by Wendy Osher.

Also at the state capitol, fellow Maui Representative Kyle Yamashita introduced an employment security bill that adjusts maximum unemployment benefits and unemployment insurance contribution rates.

Legislators found the act was necessary to maintain the recovery of the state economy.

House Bill 2264 sets the unemployment insurance contribution rate schedule at “schedule F” for calendar years 2012 and 2013; Retains the maximum weekly benefit rate for unemployment at 75% of the average weekly wage until December 31, 2013; and returns the rate to 70% on January 1, 2014.

The measure also seeks an increase in the maximum contribution rate, effective January 1, 2013.

The item is scheduled to be heard today before the Labor and Public Employment Committee.