Latest policy & regulation news and updates
The Hawaii County Council's recent decision to allow Mayor Kimo Alameda to join a state agreement for a new tax on cruise ship fares could bring significant revenue to the island. This move has implications for local businesses, the tourism sector and underscores the ongoing efforts to balance economic growth with community needs.
This article examines the voting record of Hawaii's congressional delegation on September 12, 2025, and analyzes the potential implications for businesses and investors in the state. Understanding these legislative actions is crucial for navigating the evolving economic and regulatory landscape of Hawaii.
The Hawaii Supreme Court has ruled in favor of Hawaii Medical Service Association (HMSA) in the Nitta vs. HMSA case, determining that the arbitration clause within contracts between physicians and the state's largest health insurer is enforceable. This decision, delivered on Friday, sends the case back to the lower court, potentially impacting healthcare providers and the business of healthcare in Hawaii.
Kamehameha Schools finds itself once again in the crosshairs of legal challenges concerning its admissions policy, which prioritizes applicants of Native Hawaiian ancestry. This renewed scrutiny raises questions about the institution's mission, cultural preservation, and the implications for Hawaii's broader business and social landscapes.
The Hawaii Supreme Court has issued a pivotal ruling allowing doctors and patients to bypass arbitration and directly sue Hawaii Medical Service Association (HMSA), potentially reshaping the healthcare landscape. This decision stems from concerns over the fairness and enforceability of physician contracts, as highlighted by Judge Kim's critical assessment.
A recent lawsuit has been filed against the Hawaii Legislature, challenging the practice of transforming initially empty bills into substantive legislation. This action raises serious questions about legislative transparency and could potentially impact businesses operating within the state due to potential changes in regulations.
This article explores the ongoing discussions surrounding the admissions policy of Kamehameha Schools and its historical context, particularly examining the legacies of force and the legal battles that have shaped the institution. The analysis focuses on the business environment in Hawaii and how the legal and social issues play out.
A grand jury in Honolulu has indicted a teenager involved in a widely circulated video depicting a bullying incident in Wahiawa. The indictments, which include charges of kidnapping, robbery, assault, extortion, and criminal property damage, highlight the legal consequences of the incident and its broader implications for the community.
The Hawaii State Supreme Court has struck down five of Governor Green's emergency proclamations concerning affordable housing, citing overreach of emergency powers. This decision has significant implications for real estate developers, investors, and the broader housing market in Hawaii.
The U.S. Department of Education has announced the end of funding for several minority-serving institution grant programs, including those supporting Native Hawaiian and Asian American education. This decision, potentially redirecting $350 million, raises concerns about workforce development and the broader economic implications for Hawaii.
The Hawaiʻi Supreme Court has clarified the boundaries of the Governor's emergency powers, specifically concerning the ongoing housing crisis. While upholding existing proclamations related to affordable housing, the court has established a two-part test to scrutinize future emergency declarations.
Kaua‘i County is leading the way in Hawai‘i by integrating wildfire safety standards directly into its zoning and permitting processes. This initiative, spearheaded by Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami and the County Council, aims to enhance community safety and protect property in the face of increasing wildfire risks.
A looming December 31st deadline for federal tax incentives is causing a surge of concern across Hawaii's solar energy sector. This abrupt end to key taxpayer incentives has homeowners, installers, and government agencies scrambling to adapt and ensure the continued growth of renewable energy in the islands.
Amidst concerns about public trust and transparency, a recent letter to the editor suggests dissolving the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA). This proposal raises critical questions about the future of tourism promotion and its impact on Hawaii's economy and the businesses that depend on it.
Over a decade and a half after the Hawaii Superferry ceased operations, the state continues to shoulder a significant financial burden related to the failed interisland venture. This ongoing debt impacts state finances and presents a case study in the risks of large-scale infrastructure projects.
The Hawaiʻi Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission (CCMAC) is hosting community meetings at public libraries this month to gather feedback on the Climate Action Pathways (CAP), a plan that will shape Hawaii's future. These discussions are crucial for local businesses, investors, and entrepreneurs to stay informed and influence the evolving regulatory landscape.
Mayor Richard Bissen is launching a series of community budget meetings across Maui County, providing residents, business owners, and community stakeholders a direct avenue to influence the priorities for the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, starting July 1, 2026. These meetings represent a key opportunity for local entrepreneurs and professionals to voice their needs and concerns, impacting the economic landscape of the island.
Congressman Ed Case voted against a proposed bill that would cut funding for key programs in Hawaii including education, workforce development, and public health. Case argues the cuts are detrimental, potentially impacting essential services and long-term economic prospects for the state.
The Senate Water, Agriculture, and Hawaiian Affairs (WAM) Committee recently toured the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Kahului Baseyard on Maui, gaining insights into the island's fire management strategies. This visit underscores the importance of proactive fire prevention and response for safeguarding businesses, communities, and the environment.
The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to review the legality of Donald Trump's global tariffs, a decision that could significantly impact international trade dynamics and, by extension, affect businesses in Hawaii. The outcome of this case will have repercussions for import/export companies, investors, and potentially the broader economic landscape of the state.