Hawaii raises tourist tax to fund climate work, writes Guardian.
The law is the first of its kind in the United States, according to experts.
The law, which was passed Friday, adds a 0.75 percent surcharge to the state's existing tax on hotel rooms, condos, vacation homes and other short-term accommodations. It also imposes a new 11 percent tax on cruise ship invoices.
“This legislation is the first of its kind in the nation and represents a commitment to future generations to protect our land. With this, Hawaii is truly setting the bar for addressing the climate crisis,” said Hawaii Governor Josh Green.
Authorities estimate that the tax will bring in close to one billion kronor annually. The money will be used, among other things, to replenish sand on eroding beaches and clear away invasive grass species.
Green said the increase is so small that tourists are unlikely to notice any major difference.
“The more you cultivate good environmental policies and the more you invest in improving our living environment, the more likely it is that we will actually get lifelong and engaged travelers to Hawaii,” Green told the AP.
Source: Expressen.se
