Requesting The Department Of Taxation To Conduct A Study On Disallowing The Dividends Paid Deduction For Real Estate Investment Trusts.
The resolution highlights that while some REIT shareholders reside in Hawaii, a significant majority do not, which leads to substantial tax revenue loss for the state. By investigating the effects of disallowing the dividends paid deduction, the resolution seeks to understand the broader economic implications for various asset classes influenced by REIT investments. This includes evaluating potential shifts in tax revenues from general excise taxes and corporate income taxes, particularly from real estate owned by REITs.
SCR158 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from Hawaii requesting the Department of Taxation to conduct a comprehensive study on the potential disallowance of the dividends paid deduction for real estate investment trusts (REITs). This deduction allows REITs to avoid taxation on income distributed to shareholders, who then pay taxes based on their state of residence. The bill aims to address an existing anomaly in state law where REITs operating in Hawaii that pay dividends to shareholders outside the state result in no income tax collected in Hawaii.
General sentiment regarding SCR158 appears to be focused on the need to reassess taxation policies pertaining to REITs. Proponents likely view this study as an opportunity to increase state revenue and ensure fair taxation of entities benefiting from Hawaiian assets. In contrast, concerns may arise over the potential negative impacts on investment and operational decisions for REITs, potentially affecting job creation and economic growth in the state.
Key points of contention may include the balance between enhancing state tax revenues and maintaining an attractive business environment for REITs, which are major players in Hawaii's real estate market. There may also be debates over how to implement any changes while considering the broader economic landscape post-COVID-19, especially regarding capital expenditures and job generation related to both REIT and non-REIT entities. Ultimately, the ongoing discussions stemming from SCR158 will likely focus on the intricate relationship between taxation policy and economic vitality in Hawaii.