Latest policy & regulation news and updates
A newly formed state working group is poised to study the potential viability and impacts of legalized gambling in Hawaii, potentially opening future market opportunities or competitive threats.…
The University of Hawaii at Mānoa's proactive request for legislative backing signals a potential reallocation of state resources and policy focus towards its athletics programs. This could…
US Representative Jill Tokuda's recent votes indicate a potential shift in federal funding priorities, favoring housing and education while rejecting increased spending on Immigration and Customs…
The University of Hawaii (UH) is seeking $3.7 million to directly address critical healthcare workforce shortages across its five health units. If funded, this initiative will begin a multi-year…
The Hawaiʻi Island Police Commission has narrowed its search for a new Police Chief to eight finalists, signaling a forthcoming shift in local law enforcement priorities and public safety strategies.…
All County of Maui Department of Finance offices will be closed on Friday, January 23, 2026, for mandatory staff training. Businesses requiring government services that involve the Maui Department of…
A new federal scholarship program is poised to broaden educational access for Hawaii's youth, potentially diversifying the future talent pool available to local businesses. While immediate action…
Recent state government project delays and significant cost increases, exemplified by the Capitol reflecting pool renovation, indicate systemic inefficiencies that could impact future public works…
The Hawaii Attorney General's office has initiated an investigation into alleged legislative corruption, potentially leading to future regulatory shifts and impacting public trust in state…
Hawaii's state budget faces significant strain as federal funding cuts loom, potentially leading to smaller state contracts and increased operating costs for numerous businesses. Small business…
The closure of public access to a North Shore beach for investigation indicates a potential shift towards stricter enforcement of land use and access rights, impacting tourism operators and real…
Critiques of the Hawaii Tax Department's 'Taxpayer Bill of Rights' suggest potential inefficiencies and misleading language could result in unforeseen compliance challenges and financial risks for…
Declining vaccination rates across the US, including Hawaii, threaten the nation's measles elimination status, raising the risk of outbreaks. This necessitates monitoring by healthcare providers and…
The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) has indicated resource constraints during New Year's Eve enforcement, suggesting a potential review of deployment strategies. Businesses operating in high-traffic…
Ongoing legislative investigations and a focus on perennial issues like affordable housing may lead to delays in critical policy decisions that could impact development timelines and investment…
The 2026 Hawaiʻi State Legislature session has convened, initiating a period where new bills and debates could reshape business regulations, operational costs, and market conditions. Affected roles…
The 33rd Hawaiʻi State Legislature has convened, flagging potential shifts in policy due to federal budget tightening and Maui wildfire recovery efforts. Businesses should monitor legislative debates…
A proposed bill to offer expedited property tax relief to local homebuyers on Maui has stalled due to technical challenges with the county's current tax system. This delay means potential buyers will…
The Hawaii Department of Education is raising monthly fees for the popular After-School Plus Program, adding an estimated 10-15% to childcare costs for participating families beginning the 2026-2027…
Renovations at Molokaʻi High School's gym to meet hurricane shelter standards signal potential government infrastructure spending. Investors and real estate owners should monitor related development…