Latest policy & regulation news and updates
Beginning in February, all travelers departing Hawaii will require a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID to board flights, or face potential fees and restrictions. Businesses relying on…
Hawaii's physician shortage has worsened, projecting longer wait times and potentially higher service costs for residents and businesses. Healthcare providers face increased operational strain and…
The official filing period for 2026 election candidates opens February 2, signaling the start of a process that will shape Hawaii's policy landscape for the next four years. Businesses should…
Persistent healthcare worker shortages and ongoing strikes across Hawaii are projected to elevate operational costs for businesses and lead to delays in essential services. Companies should monitor…
Proposed enhancements to Hawaii's film and television production tax incentives could significantly invigorate the local economy by attracting more large-scale projects. Entrepreneurs and small…
Select Oahu driver's license facilities now offer Saturday appointments starting January 31, easing operational disruption for businesses requiring employee license renewals. While not a hard…
Over 200 Kaiser Permanente healthcare workers in Hawaii began an open-ended strike on January 26th, significantly impairing access to medical services and potentially increasing operational burdens…
The official filing period for the 2026 Hawaii elections has begun, presenting a hard deadline for individuals seeking public office. Candidates and their campaign strategists must act now to ensure…
Hawaii's Department of Education (HIDOE) is implementing a new statewide priority placement process for Hawaiian language immersion programs (Kaiapuni) starting February 2, 2026. This change aims for…
Governor Green's proposed suspension of historic state tax breaks starting in 2027 will increase tax liabilities for Hawaii income earners, potentially impacting personal spending and business…
Governor's proposed budget cuts to housing and health services will likely lead to higher operating expenses for businesses and reduced access to essential employee support systems. Small business…
While currently a LETTER to the editor, a proposed shift in immigration enforcement focus away from federal agencies like ICE towards state and local law enforcement could alter labor market…
Governor Green has proposed suspending state tax breaks that benefit all Hawaii income earners for three years, starting with the 2027 tax year. This policy shift could reduce net disposable income…
Oahu has resumed its unsheltered Point in Time (PIT) homeless count, a key data point for policy and resource allocation. Businesses should monitor this data for potential impacts on local services,…
Hawaii's first point-in-time homeless count since 2024 is underway, and its results are critical for shaping policy decisions that could impact business operations. Prepare to monitor potential…
Governor Green's proposal to pause planned income tax cuts could reduce household disposable income by an estimated 3% and impact state revenue flows. Small business operators and remote workers…
Governor Green's proposal to halt future state tax cuts signals a potential shift in fiscal policy, prioritizing social services over tax reduction and impacting long-term business planning and…
An ongoing strike by Kaiser healthcare workers over staffing shortages is creating potential disruptions for patient care and could lead to increased operating costs or service unavailability for…
The immediate strike by 31,000 Kaiser Permanente nurses and healthcare professionals on January 26th creates significant disruptions in healthcare services statewide, necessitating immediate…
The 2026 Hawaii legislative session has begun, signaling potential new laws and regulations that could affect business operations, costs, and growth opportunities across a range of sectors.…