Latest policy & regulation news and updates
A potential strike by Kaiser Permanente healthcare professionals across California and Hawaii starting January 26 will immediately impact patient care and could lead to reduced workforce productivity…
The Hawai'i House and Senate have announced conflicting legislative priorities for 2026, with the House signaling intent to "enhance tax revenue" while the Senate emphasizes housing affordability and…
A new federal healthcare plan proposal aims to lower drug prices and insurance premiums, potentially altering operating expenses and employee benefit costs for Hawaii businesses if enacted.…
A federal investigation into Hawaii's Department of Education's sports participation policies could necessitate changes impacting school athletics, potentially affecting related business…
The upcoming Maui County Council election features a prominent kalo farmer, Bobby Pahia, as a candidate, signaling a potential shift in focus towards agricultural interests and land use policy. This…
The Hawaii State Legislature's 2026 session, opening January 21, signals potential regulatory and incentive shifts impacting business operations. Stakeholders should monitor legislative priorities…
Increased enforcement of longline fishing regulations, including a recent $10,052 fine for exceeding line length limits, means commercial fishers must immediately verify compliance to avoid costly…
Kaiser Permanente members in Hawaii may be eligible for a class action settlement related to a privacy breach, requiring immediate verification to avoid missing claim deadlines or falling victim to…
The U.S. Department of Education is investigating Hawaii schools' policies on transgender athlete participation, initiating a compliance watch for businesses interacting with educational…
Delays in implementing promised pay raises for public defenders are creating a risk of staffing shortages, potentially impacting the efficiency of legal proceedings crucial for businesses. Monitor…
Recent revelations about Honolulu's hiring and disciplinary practices for inspectors suggest potential systemic issues that could impact regulatory timelines for businesses. Companies relying on…
Persistent fire alarm activations at the State Capitol building raise concerns about infrastructure reliability and potential disruptions to upcoming legislative proceedings crucial for businesses.…
The Hawaiʻi House Majority Caucus has outlined legislative priorities for the 2026 session, signaling potential shifts in regulations and economic policies that could affect business operations.…
The appointment of a former consumer advocate to Hawaii's Public Utilities Commission (PUC) signals potential shifts in utility rate decisions and regulatory approaches. Businesses reliant on energy,…
The Hawaii Senate Majority has signaled potential new regulations and initiatives for the 2026 legislative session, beginning January 21st. Businesses should actively monitor key policy discussions…
The City and County of Honolulu's 'GROW' pilot program mandates separate food waste collection for specific Oahu districts starting April 1, requiring restaurants, food producers, and hospitality…
Upcoming public consultations on Maunakea's stewardship raise the potential for future land use restrictions that could impact development and investment opportunities. Real estate owners, investors,…
The U.S. State Department's suspension of immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 nations effective immediately creates an immediate talent acquisition challenge for businesses reliant on…
Key federal appropriations bills for Fiscal Year 2026, containing potential funding for Hawaii projects, have advanced in the US House. While specific allocations are pending, these developments…
Justin Herrmann's announcement to run for Maui County Mayor introduces a new dynamic that could lead to policy adjustments affecting business operations, real estate, and tourism over the next 18…