As prices soar, top Democratic candidates for governor support relief from tax on groceries

Hawaiʻi Appleseed Center for Law & Economic Justice supports GET relief.

Appleseed’s Hawaiʻi Budget & Policy Center Director Will White said they’re supportive of progressive tax policy but views the GET as a regressive tax because it disproportionately impacts lower-income families.

Hawaiʻi Appleseed said a tax revenue boost must be paired with the tax cut to ensure key services aren’t cut.

“Because the last thing you want to have happen is provide direct relief for low-income folks but then in the state budget, have to slash services for folks who need those essential services the most,” White said.

The organization suggested raising the capital gains tax or increasing tax on the wealthiest earners.