Hawaii Senate Bill SB2753

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/22
• Refer: 1/24/22

Caption

Relating To Taxation.

Impact

The bill proposes a tax credit for each verified blood donation made by employees during employer-sponsored blood drives. This credit is applicable for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2021, and before January 1, 2028. It allows taxpayers to reduce their net income tax liabilities, promoting participation in blood donation initiatives. The aim is not only to combat the existing blood shortage but also to develop a regular practice of blood donating through employer engagement, thus fostering a culture of community support and health awareness.

Summary

Senate Bill 2753, introduced in 2022, addresses a critical issue regarding blood supply shortages in Hawaii, particularly after a drop in donations attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill's primary aim is to establish a tax credit for employers who host blood donation drives, thereby incentivizing businesses to facilitate and encourage their employees to donate blood. The legislation recognizes the Blood Bank of Hawaii as the sole provider of blood to local hospitals, emphasizing the urgent need to increase donations to adequately supply medical facilities and manage health emergencies.

Contention

One of the main components of the bill is the financial incentive it offers. Each verified donation is eligible for a credit, although specifics regarding the exact amount and total credits authorized have not been detailed in the legislation text. This vagueness could lead to discussions on the adequacy of the incentives and their effectiveness in increasing blood donations. Moreover, there may be concerns about the administrative aspects of claiming these credits, such as the verification process for donations and the reporting requirements for employers. Hence, while the intent to generate more donations is agreed upon, the implementation details could be a point of debate.