California Journal of Politics and Policy

Hawaii adopted a state budget that authorizes $14.3 billion in spending for FY2019. The Aloha State’s economy continues to benefit from record-breaking tourist numbers and robust federal military spending.  Although the state’s unemployment rate is among the lowest ever recorded for any state in the nation, the cost of housing has made it increasingly difficult for working families to purchase a home.  Tax revenues are strong, but they remain very dependent on the tourism industry.  Hawaii also faces huge liabilities for pension and health care payments that are promised to retired state employees.