Even More Tax Increases?

Joe Pluta, President and Founder of the West Maui Taxpayer’s Association, joined Joe Kent to discuss the impact of the many proposed tax increases. The interview was recorded as part of the Grassroot Institute with Dr. Keli’i Akina, a radio show on KAOI 1110AM, 96.7FM, Mondays on Maui at 7am.

“Perhaps the most controversial tax is the GET, because of its phenomenal detrimental impact on small businesses,” said Mr. Pluta.  “Whenever a dollar moves from one spot to another, whoever is the recipient of that dollar is obligated to pay 4% to the State of Hawai’i . . . often times its closer to twenty-something percent by the time it gets to the consumer.”

Joe Pluta continued to explain that, although tax increases are earmarked to target specific needs, the State of Hawai’i often disregards the initial commitment of those funds.

“The earmark is just an illusion” Mr. Pluta stated, “it can be changed.”

Listen to the full interview here: