Latest news with #HawaiiHotelAlliance
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Hawaii introduces new 'Green Fee' tourist tax after Maui fires
Hawaiian hoteliers are expressing concern about a new tourist tax signed into law by Governor Josh Green this week that could keep visitors away from the popular US holiday destination. "I am extremely worried about getting too expensive for the people that come here to Hawaii," Jerry Gibson, president of the Hawaii Hotel Alliance, said. "You always have to balance those decisions, and we're certainly getting up to a point where we need to really be careful and watch it." Gibson was speaking after Green signed the relevant bill – the first of its kind in the United States – on Tuesday. "As an island chain, Hawaii cannot wait for the next disaster to hit before taking action," Green posted on X. "We must build resiliency now, and the Green Fee will provide the necessary financing to ensure resources are available for our future," he said. Hawaiian authorities expect the new tax to bring in almost $100 million per year. Almost 10 million visitors came to the Pacific Ocean islands during 2023. The tax is being billed as a reaction to the catastrophic wildfires that hit Maui, the second-largest island in the archipelago, in August two years ago. More than 100 people died, and Lahaina, a popular tourist destination, was devastated. That devastation was attributed in part to climate change. The 11% Transient Accommodation Tax represents a rise of 0.75% on the taxes tourists already pay, according to USA Today. It will be charged to tourists staying in hotels or holiday accommodation from January 1 next year.
Yahoo
28-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
The Hospitality Show: Hawaiʻi – Industry Insights, Trends, and Policy Developments
HONOLULU (KHON2) — Hawaiʻi's hospitality leaders gathered Thursday to go over market trends and policy developments at this year's Hospitality show: Chris Latronic went live from Waikiki with a preview. He met up with Executive VP of American Hotels & lodging association, Troy Flanagan, President of the Hawaii Hotel Alliance, & Kekoa McCellan, Spokesperson for AHLA in Hawaii to get an overview of this year's event. The Hospitality Show: Hawaiʻi is powered by the Hawaiʻi Hotel Alliance and the American Hotel & Lodging Association. It's an exclusive event tailored for the local hospitality community. Offering a unique opportunity to connect with industry peers and gain valuable insights into the latest market trends and policy developments affecting our region. This event is free and open to all hospitality professionals. Secure your spot and bring your colleagues to benefit from this enriching experience. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news Event Details: Date: February 27, 2025 Time: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Following the program: Enjoy a networking reception Location: Waikīkī Beach Marriott Resort & Spa 2552 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
