Latest policy & regulation news and updates
Hawaii has joined a coalition of states in a lawsuit challenging federal guidance that could deny Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to certain legal immigrants. The legal action aims to preserve access to critical food assistance for lawful permanent residents and other eligible individuals in the state.
Following a stalemate among Maui County Council members, Mayor Richard Bissen will now select the successor to fill the vacant seat left by the late Councilmember Tasha Kama. This decision has significant implications for local businesses, economic development, and policy decisions within the county.
A recent letter published in the *Star-Advertiser* challenges Governor Josh Green's proposal to use liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a transitional fuel towards Hawaii's goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045. This has sparked a debate on the role of LNG in Hawaii's energy future and its impact on the state's business landscape.
Following a failure by the Maui County Council to agree on a successor, Mayor Richard Bissen will now appoint the next council member to fill the vacancy left by the late Tasha Kama. The decision has implications for local business and community development, as the new appointee will play a role in shaping policies affecting Maui's economy.
As the holiday shopping season kicks off, the State of Hawaiʻi's Office of Consumer Protection is urging both retailers and consumers to be vigilant. This year, the focus is on understanding return policies and avoiding holiday shopping scams.
Hawaii has joined a coalition of states in a lawsuit against the Trump administration's attempt to restrict Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for legal immigrants. This legal challenge highlights the state's commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and underscores the potential economic impact of these policy changes.
Governor Josh Green has announced that the draft National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) does not authorize the Army to condemn land in Hawaii, giving the state stronger negotiating power in ongoing discussions about the military's use of training lands. This development has significant implications for real estate development, government relations, and investment prospects across the islands.
The Jones Act, a century-old maritime law, continues to spark debate in Hawaii. This article analyzes the Act's effects on the state's economy, particularly for local businesses and consumers, and examines arguments from both sides of the issue.
A proposed measure before the Honolulu City Council is raising concerns about potential preferential treatment in the dissemination of public information from police communications, potentially hindering transparency and access for businesses and the public. The debate centers on the balance between public safety, media access, and the rights of all residents to receive timely information.
Following the death of Councilmember Tasha Kama, the Maui County Council remains deadlocked, unable to reach a consensus on her replacement. This impasse has left the final decision in the hands of Mayor Richard Bissen, impacting local governance and potentially influencing future business-related policies.
The Maui County Council's failure to agree on a successor to the late Councilmember Tasha Kama has transferred the appointment authority to Mayor Richard Bissen. This decision will likely influence local policy and governance, potentially affecting various sectors within Maui's business environment.
Representative Jill Tokuda has introduced legislation to repeal tariffs imposed during the prior administration on Indo-Pacific partners, potentially easing trade restrictions for Hawaii-based businesses. This move could stimulate economic activity tied to the import and export sectors, critical to the state's economy.
Hawaii is embroiled in a debate over its mail-in voting system, with the Elections Commission proposing a return to in-person voting, sparking discussions regarding voter turnout and election security. This shift could have significant implications for businesses and the broader political landscape in the state.
In a historic move, representatives from nine Oahu neighborhood boards are uniting to demand that government officials prioritize hurricane preparedness, focusing on shelter construction and home fortification. This shift in focus highlights the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of future storms and protect local communities and businesses.
The recent ordinance making the Residential Parking Zone (RPZ) in Kalihi Valley's Wilson Tract permanent signifies a critical shift in Honolulu's approach to address parking challenges. For local entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and other business professionals, this move offers both insights and potential implications regarding urban planning, property values, and community development.
Governor Green has appointed Seth Colby as the new Budget Director, a move that places a key economic analyst at the helm of state fiscal planning. This appointment, particularly given Colby's background as Chief State Economist at the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), is expected to influence budgetary decisions affecting various sectors across the Islands.
The Supreme Court will review a case challenging Hawaii's restrictions on carrying firearms on private property, reigniting a debate with potential ramifications for businesses and property owners. The National Rifle Association (NRA) has filed an amicus brief, signaling its strong stance on the issue.
Nearly two years after a new law restricted heavy commercial vehicles from using the far-left lane on Hawaii's roadways, Honolulu police have yet to issue a single citation. This lack of enforcement raises concerns about traffic safety and the effectiveness of business regulations affecting commercial enterprises.
Disputes with the Hawaii Department of Taxation are common, leading to the need for a formal tax appeal process. This article explores the intricacies of appealing tax assessments, offering insights for Hawaii businesses to ensure compliance and protect their financial interests.
A recent lawsuit filed against Kamehameha Schools by Students for Fair Admissions (SFFA) is challenging the institution's admissions policy, which gives preference to Native Hawaiians. This action, mirroring SFFA's successful challenge to affirmative action in college admissions, has significant implications for Hawaii's educational landscape and the principles of reparative justice.