Latest policy & regulation news and updates
State lawmakers are scrutinizing the proposed alliance between Hawaii's largest health insurer, HMSA, and health system provider, HPH, signaling potential regulatory shifts that could alter market…
The state's commitment to rigorous fishing law enforcement, exemplified by maximum fines for violations, signals a heightened regulatory environment. Fishing and food production businesses must…
A potential $168 million cut to federal community school grants, currently under appeal, could lead to the erosion of vital student and family support services nationwide, including Hawaii. This…
The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) is relocating its central Honolulu headquarters due to significant asbestos contamination, raising concerns about potential disruptions to state services and…
Implementation delays for Hawaii's expanded preschool tuition subsidies mean potential ongoing childcare challenges for working families. Small businesses and healthcare providers should monitor…
A successful redesign of a key agricultural permitting system demonstrates a replicable model for reducing administrative burdens, potentially lowering compliance costs and accelerating operational…
Proposed legislation in Hawaii may require drivers to retake written knowledge tests upon license renewal, a change not seen in nearly 30 years. While not an immediate business crisis, companies…
Upcoming legislative proposals advocating for immigrant justice may indirectly influence workforce composition and labor availability in Hawaii over the next 6-12 months. Businesses reliant on…
The FDA has asked drugmakers to remove suicide risk warnings from popular GLP-1 weight-loss medications, potentially impacting patient access and prescription trends. While immediate business…
A recent clarification confirms that the new parking law, prohibiting parking within 20 feet of crosswalks and intersections, applies statewide, not just in school zones. Businesses must reassess…
Proposed agribusiness development at Kaukonahua Ranch is meeting significant community resistance, potentially impacting its timeline and feasibility. Agriculture producers and real estate owners…
A proposal to legalize marijuana through a state constitutional amendment, rather than legislative action, introduces significant regulatory ambiguity that could impact business planning and…
Upcoming Lahaina Community Meetings will provide critical updates on reconstruction progress and federal/county aid dispersal, impacting business recovery and investment decisions. Businesses and…
The City and County of Honolulu is moving forward with plans to expand the Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill, which may lead to rising waste disposal fees for businesses and necessitate a wider…
A community challenge against Kaukonahua Ranch's agribusiness project classification could lead to stricter zoning enforcement and longer permitting for agricultural and tourism-related developments.…
Hawaii's clarified parking regulations now mandate a 20-foot clearance from crosswalks and intersections statewide, not just in school zones, increasing potential operational costs and logistical…
A pilot program deploying armed school resource officers (SROs) at three Oahu high schools starting early 2026 may indicate shifting community safety dynamics. Businesses in or near Waianae, Kapolei,…
Daisy Hartsfield's appointment to represent House District 36 could signal subtle shifts in legislative focus and policy priorities affecting businesses in the district. Small operators and real…
Opponents have presented arguments to the city for the revocation of permits for a proposed North Shore gondola project, potentially delaying or altering future tourism infrastructure plans.…
The ACLU of Hawaii has outlined its 2026 legislative priorities, signaling potential advocacy efforts that could introduce new regulations or enforcement challenges for businesses. Operators should…