During a recent government meeting, strong support emerged for Bill 46, aimed at addressing Hawaii's housing crisis through the implementation of an empty homes tax. Testimonies from various residents highlighted the urgent need for affordable housing, particularly in Oahu, where over 30,000 homes remain vacant, often owned by absentee investors.

Testifiers emphasized that the empty homes tax would incentivize property owners to either rent or sell their units, thereby increasing the availability of affordable housing for local families. Hannah Sembrano, a recent graduate, articulated the plight of native Hawaiians, stating, \"No one should be houseless in a place that they call home.\" This sentiment was echoed by Mahealani Ioannis, who shared personal experiences of witnessing homelessness and the struggles of middle-class families to secure suitable housing.

Albany Coate, a senior at Manoa, underscored the bill's potential to generate revenue while combating housing insecurity, asserting that it could create thousands of dollars in revenue and increase living space availability. Piper Neri, also a senior, described the bill as a critical response to Honolulu's status as one of the least affordable housing markets in the nation, advocating for a community where residents can thrive rather than merely exist.

Susan Lee, a housing policy analyst, supported the bill but urged that all generated funds be allocated to affordable housing initiatives. She expressed concern over potential loopholes that could allow property owners to evade the tax. Professor Robert Perkinson from the University of Hawaii highlighted the bill's immediate financial benefits, calling for swift action to avoid bureaucratic delays.

The testimonies collectively painted a picture of a community grappling with a housing crisis, advocating for legislative measures that prioritize the needs of local residents over investment interests. The meeting concluded without questions from the committee, indicating a strong consensus on the importance of advancing Bill 46 to address the pressing issue of housing affordability in Hawaii.