Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-Second State Legislature

Regular Session of 2004

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Human Services, to which was referred S.B. No. 2149 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to allow taxpayers to voluntarily contribute five dollars or more on their state income tax returns to be allocated to the Hawaii Children's Trust Fund, Domestic Violence Prevention Special Fund, and Spouse and Child Abuse Special Accounts.

Testimony in support of the measure was submitted by Hawaii Children's Trust Fund, the Sex Abuse Treatment Center, Parents and Children Together, Good Beginnings Alliance, National Association of Social Workers, Hawaii Coalition Against Sexual Assault, Blueprint for Change, Domestic Violence Clearing House and Hotline, and Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The Department of Taxation submitted testimony in opposition and the Tax Foundation of Hawaii submitted comments.

Your Committee finds that domestic violence is a major problem faced by Hawaii's families. Additional revenue is needed to enhance prevention and intervention services, as well as increase community awareness. The gaps in services need to be addressed so victims of abuse and neglect can receive the specialized services they require.

This bill will allow the public to support programs that offer services to victims of domestic violence and child abuse. Many people, if given the chance, would like to support such programs. The income tax check-off box is an excellent method to raise funds and awareness.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Human Services that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 2149 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.