Latest policy & regulation news and updates
Mayor Richard Bissen is holding community budget meetings next week in Pāiʻa-Haʻikū, West Maui, and South Maui to collect input on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget. This presents a crucial opportunity for Maui businesses to voice their needs and shape the county's financial priorities, impacting various sectors from tourism to infrastructure.
The Hawaii Department of Education (DOE) is reconsidering its strategy in response to falling student enrollment, choosing to prioritize district restructuring before implementing school closures and consolidations. This shift follows months of community and stakeholder discussions, considering the impact on school identity and community dynamics.
Governor Josh Green signed an executive order to address the alarming rise in traffic fatalities in Hawaii. The order introduces new regulations for e-bikes, promotes safety education for high-risk drivers, and aims to bolster law enforcement efforts, potentially affecting various businesses and industries.
A recent letter to the editor highlights concerns about the effectiveness of Hawaii's leadership, attributing weaknesses to the influence of political contributions. The author specifically points to insufficient protection of the state's vital watersheds as a key example of this failure.
The Hawaii Department of Education (DOE) is changing its strategy to address declining student enrollment. Instead of immediately resorting to school closures and consolidations, the DOE will prioritize district optimization, a move that could reshape education across the islands.
Governor Green's recent Executive Order mandates uniform e-bike regulations and enhances traffic safety measures, including driver education. This has significant implications for businesses, particularly those in the tourism, transportation, and retail sectors across Hawaii.
Governor Josh Green signed an Executive Order on September 18th in response to the alarming rise in traffic fatalities across the Hawaiian Islands, particularly on Oʻahu. The order aims to enhance road safety and prevent further loss of life, impacting various sectors of the state's economy.
As Kamehameha Schools seeks a new trustee, the community reflects on the critical qualities needed to guide the institution. These leaders bear the responsibility of upholding Princess Pauahi's vision, making their choices profoundly influential for Hawaii's future.
A recent inquiry to the Honolulu Star-Advertiser's Kokua Line sheds light on the tax treatment of employee tips under new federal regulations. This article examines the implications for Hawaii's hospitality and service sectors, offering insights for business owners and employees alike.
Hawaii's health officials have released their own vaccine recommendations for the upcoming respiratory virus season, diverging from anticipated forthcoming federal guidelines. This move reflects the state's commitment to proactive public health measures, impacting residents and healthcare providers.
Terri Ann Otani, the former secretary and HR director for Mitsunaga & Associates, has pleaded not guilty to charges of making illegal campaign contributions in 2020. The case, set for trial in November, raises questions about political ethics and transparency in Hawaii's business sector.
As Hawaii strives to maintain its leadership in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, discussions around state-level incentives are gaining momentum. A proposed gasoline displacement incentive is being touted as a potential solution to boost EV uptake and fill the gap left by expiring federal programs.
The Hawaii Supreme Court has issued a nuanced ruling on Governor Josh Green's emergency proclamations concerning affordable housing, upholding the governor's ability to act in emergencies while also setting boundaries on executive power, a decision with significant implications for real estate developers, investors, and policymakers in Hawaii.
Terri Ann Otani, the former secretary and HR director for Mitsunaga & Associates, has pleaded not guilty to charges of making illegal campaign contributions. The case, which stems from contributions made during the 2020 election cycle, highlights the importance of adhering to campaign finance laws in Hawaii.
Native Hawaiian leaders, scientists, and fishermen are actively opposing efforts to weaken safeguards for national marine monuments, emphasizing the importance of these areas for both ecological health and sustainable practices. This pushback underscores the ongoing debate over balancing environmental conservation with economic interests in the Pacific.
Hawai'i has implemented stricter moped safety regulations with the enactment of Act 222, mandating helmet use for all riders and prohibiting those under 16 from operating mopeds. This new law will likely impact the tourism sector and local businesses involved in rentals and related services.
The ACLU of Hawaiʻi has publicly expressed its solidarity with Kamehameha Schools, emphasizing the rights of Native Hawaiians. This announcement underscores the ongoing significance of indigenous sovereignty and claims within the state's legal and social landscape.
The League of Women Voters of Hawaii has filed a lawsuit against the practice of introducing vague, content-less bills in the state legislature, a move that could significantly impact the business environment. This action targets so-called "blankety-blank" bills, which often have broad titles and lack specific details, potentially hindering transparency and effective governance.
The Hawaii County Council is revisiting a pedestrian conduct bill after a mayoral veto, while also approving a resolution to implement a new statewide tax on cruise ship fares. These developments will impact local businesses and the tourism industry.
A new task force, the Simplifying Permitting for Enhanced Economic Development (SPEED) Task Force, is working to streamline building permit processes across Hawaii. This initiative aims to stimulate construction and boost economic growth by reducing bureaucratic hurdles.