Proposed Military Sentencing Changes Could Affect Business Legal Exposure
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Policy & Regulation
Latest policy & regulation news and updates
Recreational Marijuana Legalization Could Shift Business Operating Models and Consumer Demand in Hawaii
Legislation progressing towards a public ballot on recreational marijuana legalization in Hawaii means businesses must prepare for significant regulatory, operational, and market shifts. Early…
Potential New Driver's Test for License Renewals Could Increase Business Operating Costs
Legislative discussions are underway to potentially implement driving tests during license renewals, driven by a significant increase in traffic fatalities. While no immediate changes are mandated,…
Kalihi Valley Businesses Face Increased Operating Costs from New Parking Program
The upcoming parking permit program in Kalihi Valley will introduce new costs for businesses operating in the area, impacting daily operating expenses and potentially affecting staffing and customer…
Increased E-bike Enforcement Risks Fines and Seizures for Hawaii Businesses
Honolulu Police Department's stepped-up enforcement of E-bike regulations means businesses using or recommending these vehicles face growing risks of citations and impoundment. Small operators and…
Maui Businesses Face Disrupted Healthcare Access and Potential Staffing Strains as Kaiser Permanente Staff Set to Strike January 26th
Thousands of Kaiser Permanente healthcare workers on Maui are poised to strike starting January 26th, potentially disrupting employee healthcare access and straining local businesses reliant on these…
Increased Vehicle Break-ins Signal Need for Enhanced Business and Personal Security Measures
A recent rise in vehicle break-ins across Hawaii necessitates increased vigilance and security protocols for businesses and residents. Ignoring this trend could lead to increased property damage,…
Ongoing New Year's Eve Fireworks Enforcement Escalates Potential Fines for Business Operators
Hawaii's Department of Law Enforcement continues to issue penalties for New Year's Eve fireworks violations, extending the risk of fines well into 2026. Businesses, particularly those in the…
Senior Tax Deduction Boosts Disposable Income for Hawaii Residents Aged 65+
Hawaii residents aged 65 and older will see their taxable income reduced by up to $12,000 starting with the 2026 tax year, potentially increasing discretionary spending. Businesses and financial…
Hawaii Businesses Face Indirect Import Cost Risk from U.S.-Greenland Trade Tensions
President Trump's tariff threats against nations not supporting U.S. control of Greenland could disrupt global trade, potentially increasing import costs for Hawaii businesses. Small operators and…
Red Hill Water Exposure Survey May Impact Future Compensation Claims for Affected Hawaii Residents
Individuals who used the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility water system around the 2021 fuel release now have an opportunity to participate in a survey that could inform future remediation and…
Potential Cut to Federal School Grants Could Affect Long-Term Workforce Pipeline for Hawaii Businesses
A federal grant program supporting community schools faces proposed funding cuts, potentially reducing critical student and family support services. This could indirectly impact Hawaii's long-term…
News
Aloha House Dormitory Expansion May Alter Local Makawao Labor Dynamics and Healthcare Capacity
Aloha House has expanded its Makawao campus by 25%, adding 12 beds for residential substance use treatment. This expansion could subtly impact the local Makawao labor pool and highlight growth in…
Red Hill Water Survey Scope Uncertainty May Affect Property Assessments and Land Use Planning
Answering a question about the Red Hill water survey's scope suggests ambiguity that could impact property value assessments and resource allocation decisions in affected regions. Real estate owners…
Cruise Ship Passenger Tax Legislation Faces Uncertainty, Potentially Delaying Revenue for Tourism Operators
Proposed changes to Hawaii's cruise ship passenger tax law, initially slated for 2025, are now uncertain due to federal litigation and potential legislative amendments. Tourism operators and…
Federal Review of Hawaii School Gender Policies Could Alter Facility Use and Program Support
A U.S. Department of Education investigation into Hawaii's policies on student participation in sports based on gender identity may force changes affecting school facilities and support services.…
Businesses May Face Evolving Security Protocols as Gunshot Detection Tech Deploys
The initial deployment of gunshot and explosion detection technology across Hawaii may lead to revised public safety perceptions and necessitate adaptive operational security measures for businesses.…
Proposed Housing Legislation Could Alter Development Costs and Labor Availability
Republican lawmakers are proposing legislative changes to address Hawaii's housing crisis, which could impact development costs and potentially influence labor markets. Businesses should monitor…
New Public Utilities Commission Chair May Signal Shift in Hawaii's Energy and Telecommunications Policy
Jon Itomura's appointment as Chair of the Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission (PUC) indicates a potential recalibration of regulatory priorities for energy, telecommunications, and utility services.…
Kaiser Permanente Strike Threatens Healthcare Access; Businesses Should Brace for Workforce Impacts
A potential strike by over 200 Kaiser Permanente healthcare workers starting January 26 will immediately disrupt patient care and could strain workforce productivity across Hawaii. Businesses should…