Latest policy & regulation news and updates
The Hawaii Attorney General's office initiating a "new investigation" into a previously known bribery case, with action deferred until after the legislative session, introduces a layer of potential…
AARP Hawaii's advocacy for stronger cryptocurrency ATM protections and enhanced caregiver support signals potential regulatory shifts impacting financial services and elder care businesses.…
Scholarship programs incentivizing medical graduates to practice in Hawaii are showing success, potentially mitigating future physician shortages. While not requiring immediate action, businesses…
Heightened US-EU trade rhetoric, including threats of widespread tariffs, could disrupt global supply chains, impacting import costs for Hawaii businesses. Businesses should monitor international…
A recent U.S. Supreme Court hearing indicated potential skepticism towards Hawaii's strict firearm carry laws on private property, potentially altering security requirements for businesses. Small…
Governor Josh Green's proposed budget suspends planned income tax reductions, potentially reducing household disposable income and forcing businesses to recalibrate financial strategies.
Hawaii's upcoming legislative session begins with significant economic uncertainty, potentially leading to cautious spending and policy shifts that will impact business operations. Proactive…
State deputies are enhancing traffic enforcement across Hawaii, focusing on school zones and impaired driving. Businesses with mobile operations or employee commutes face a heightened risk of traffic…
A new state pilot program offering free medical flights to Oʻahu for Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi residents starting this month will significantly reduce transportation barriers to specialized care.…
A range of legal and regulatory shifts will alter employer responsibilities and compliance requirements throughout 2026. Businesses must stay ahead of these changes to avoid penalties and operational…
Hawaii lawmakers are signaling a potential tightening of state budgets across all departments, including a significant portion allocated to education. This increased fiscal scrutiny suggests a future…
The 33rd Hawaiʻi State Legislature convenes its 2026 session, marking the start of a period where new bills impacting business operations, costs, and regulations could be introduced. Stakeholders…
A deficit of 833 physicians in Hawaiʻi, exacerbated by a net loss of 31 full-time equivalents last year, will likely lead to longer wait times and higher healthcare expenses for employers and…
The U.S. Supreme Court's review of a Hawaii-based case concerning concealed carry rights on private property open to the public could introduce new compliance requirements for businesses. A ruling…
Ongoing discussions around immigration due process and legislative challenges highlight potential factors contributing to a 'brain drain,' which could impact talent acquisition and retention for…
The Honolulu Police Commission has initiated the search for a new Police Chief, engaging an executive search firm to gather community and personnel input over the next three months. This signals…
Ongoing discussions between young professionals and policymakers highlight potential future legislation aimed at increasing affordability, which could translate to higher operating costs and stricter…
The Department of Health's state headquarters on Punchbowl Street will be vacated this year due to deferred maintenance, forcing a costly relocation of 550 employees and vital public services.…
The University of Hawaii's John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM) has secured a $1.1 million grant to pilot AI-driven solutions for rural physician shortages. While direct impacts are several…
Hawaii's doctor shortage has intensified, exacerbating existing challenges for healthcare providers and necessitating immediate strategic adjustments. Increased recruitment expenses and extended…