Hawaii Gov. Josh Green announced the use of his line-item veto power to slash over $500 million from the state’s general fund budget, citing a lower revenue forecast. This action comes after the Council on Revenues revised its tax revenue projections, mandating budget cuts for the state. The vetoes impact various sectors, including emergency response infrastructure, solar energy, and teacher housing.

Vetoes Target Major Projects Amid Fiscal Concerns
Among the cuts, $71 million for a proposed first responders campus in Mililani was reduced to just $1 million for planning purposes. Green highlighted concerns over the projected total cost, which could soar to $500 million, and the lack of support from Honolulu police. Additionally, $50 million was slashed from a $100 million solar energy storage loan program, and funding for teacher housing was significantly cut from $170 million to $50 million, as the state couldn’t effectively utilize the full amount within the upcoming fiscal year.
The governor also removed $500 million from the rainy day fund allocation for the following fiscal year, though the fund will retain $1.5 billion in reserves. Green emphasized that essential areas like housing, homelessness, health care, and preschool remain priorities despite the budget adjustments, ensuring vital services continue while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Source : https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/hawaii/articles/2023-06-14/hawaii-governor-uses-line-item-veto-to-cut-over-500-million-from-budget