Latest policy & regulation news and updates
Hawaii's agricultural sector is seeing the first signs of success in its fight against agricultural crime. A new task force, established under "Duke's Law," is already reuniting farmers with their stolen livestock and is providing a vital response to the increasing financial and emotional costs of rural crime in Hawai'i.
Hawaii's business community faces evolving challenges and opportunities as it adapts to climate change legislation. This article examines the recent legislative session, highlighting both advancements and setbacks in environmental policy and their potential impact on local businesses and investors.
The ongoing legal battle over Hawaii's "Green Fee," a tax on tourists and cruise lines designed to fund environmental projects, has intensified as the cruise industry challenges the state's tax appeal system. This dispute could have significant financial implications for the tourism sector, as well as influencing how environmental initiatives are funded.
U.S. Representative Ed Case is backing a bipartisan initiative to extend critical Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, warning that approximately 25,000 Hawaii residents could face drastic premium hikes if Congress fails to act before the end of December. The move comes as expiring federal aid threatens to destabilize healthcare affordability for many in the state.
The Honolulu City Council has passed a bill compelling the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) to provide timely and accurate information to select news media during significant public safety incidents. This legislation aims to enhance public trust and ensure the rapid dissemination of crucial information, but raises concerns regarding privacy and operational constraints.
The Honolulu City Council has approved a new bill that compels the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) to provide timely and accurate information to designated news organizations during significant public safety events. This legislation aims to enhance transparency and improve public awareness during critical incidents.
Hawaii's Congressional delegation has expressed significant concerns regarding the slow pace of FEMA grant approvals and disbursements, which critically impacts the state's ability to respond to emergencies and support vital community programs. These delays are affecting multiple crucial grant programs, potentially hindering disaster relief and hindering ongoing community initiatives.
A recent op-ed published by Maui Now warns that the proposed phase-out of short-term rentals (STRs) in Maui could devastate the island's economy, leading to widespread job losses and a decline in overall economic activity. The author argues that the policy, intended to address the housing crisis, may have unintended consequences that harm the very community it seeks to assist.
The Grassroot Institute of Hawaii submitted a series of testimonies to county councils across the state in early December 2025, advocating for policy changes related to zoning regulations and tax relief for farmers. These efforts aim to streamline development processes and support the agricultural sector in Hawaii.
Hawaii State Senator Brenton Awa has been reprimanded and fined by an ethics panel for using state resources to support a former staff member's legislative campaign. This ruling raises concerns about ethical conduct within the state government and potential impacts on business-related policies.
Hawaii's proactive response to the federal government shutdown has resulted in the state spending less on emergency aid than initially projected, providing a financial safety net for residents facing SNAP benefit disruptions. This shift highlights the state's fiscal agility and its commitment to community support amid federal uncertainty.
The Maui County Council has advanced Bill 9, a measure to phase out short-term rentals in residential areas, a move with significant implications for the local economy. While the first reading has passed, the final outcome of the bill and its impact on Maui's business landscape remains to be seen.
The U.S. Supreme Court is set to review Hawaii's strict regulations on where individuals can carry firearms, specifically addressing the state's ban on handguns in private businesses unless explicitly permitted by the owner. This legal challenge has significant business implications for property owners, retailers, and the broader business community in Hawaii.
The Honolulu City Council has passed a resolution urging the city administration to uphold the constitutional rights of all residents, regardless of their citizenship or immigration status. This move comes amid increasing federal immigration enforcement activities and aims to reinforce the city's commitment to protecting all individuals within its jurisdiction.
Hawaii's proactive response to the federal government shutdown has resulted in lower-than-projected state spending on financial and food assistance programs. This financial relief offers a sigh of relief for the state's budget and allows for more flexibility in addressing other critical needs.
A recent letter published in the Star-Advertiser raises concerns about Mayor Richard Bissen's statements regarding water shortages and their impact on affordable housing, particularly in light of the continued development of luxury resorts in South Maui. The letter questions the fairness of resource allocation and the true motivations behind local policies.
Hawaii State Senator Brenton Awa has been fined and reprimanded by the state's ethics panel for using state resources to improperly influence voters. The ruling stems from allegations that Senator Awa leveraged his position to support the legislative bid of his former office manager.
Hawaii State Senator Brenton Awa has been fined for violating ethics rules. The Senator used state resources, including his office, staff, and time, to film a campaign advertisement, raising concerns about the appropriate use of public funds and state assets.
The satirical news website, The Babylon Bee, has filed a federal lawsuit against the State of Hawaii, challenging a law that restricts online content deemed to be "materially deceptive" about politicians. This legal battle has significant implications for free speech and could affect the landscape for Hawaii's entrepreneurs, media outlets, and all businesses that rely on online platforms.
The Honolulu Ocean Safety Commission is tasked with selecting a chief to lead the newly formed department, a decision with significant implications for Oahu's beaches and visitor safety. The choice will shape the future of ocean rescue and public safety efforts.