Latest policy & regulation news and updates
The state of Hawaii has launched a lawsuit against ByteDance Inc., the parent company of TikTok, alleging the platform deliberately designed an addictive environment that harms young users while misleading the public about associated risks. This legal challenge could have significant repercussions for the social media giant's operations and advertising revenue within the state.
Hawaii's Attorney General has initiated legal action against TikTok's parent company, alleging the social media platform intentionally designed an addictive system that harms young users and misleads the public. This lawsuit highlights growing concerns over the platform's impact on mental health and data privacy, particularly among children in Hawaii.
Following a federal mandate to collect sensitive data on SNAP recipients, Hawaii is now grappling with the implications on its food security programs. The move has business and privacy implications for the state's most vulnerable.
A recent proposal by the University of Hawaii to allocate $5 million in public funds for athlete compensation has sparked debate, particularly regarding the equitable distribution of funds and potential implications for Title IX compliance. Critics are raising concerns that the allocation, with half earmarked for the football team and the remainder unspecified, may not adequately support female athletes, raising questions about fairness and legal obligations.
The State of Hawaii has initiated legal proceedings against ByteDance Inc., the parent company of TikTok, alleging that the social media giant is exploiting its vast user base, which includes a significant number of children, for economic gain. The lawsuit claims ByteDance engages in false marketing and promotional practices to achieve this financial advantage.
State Representative Rachele Lamosao has been appointed by Governor Josh Green to fill the Senate seat vacated by the retirement of Senator Henry Aquino. This appointment brings a new representative to the State’s Legislature and may have impacts on future policies.
Governor Josh Green's recent appointment of a state representative to a vacant Senate seat has raised eyebrows, particularly given the appointee's previous involvement in a scandal involving former Representative Ty Cullen. This move comes as the Democrats now have the opportunity to appoint a new representative to HD36, further shifting the power dynamics within the legislature.
Governor Josh Green has appointed former State Representative Rachele Lamosao to fill the vacant Senate District 19 seat created by the retirement of Senator Henry Aquino. This appointment has spurred interest within Hawaii's business community, as stakeholders assess the potential impacts of new leadership on local policy and regulations.
The state of Hawaii has joined the growing legal battle against TikTok, filing a lawsuit on December 3rd, citing concerns over the social media platform's impact on the mental health and well-being of young users. This action could potentially reshape how businesses in Hawaii approach advertising and marketing strategies aimed at children.
Senator Joni Ernst is demanding major reforms to the SBA's 8(a) program following the revelation of a $550 million bribery scheme, which could impact federal contracting opportunities for small businesses, including those in Hawaii. This crackdown highlights the risks associated with government contracting and underscores the need for due diligence and ethical practices for entrepreneurs and investors.
The recent federal investigation into Christopher Dawson, founder of the Hawaiian Native Corporation, reveals a significant embezzlement scheme within the Small Business Administration's 8(a) program. This editorial examines the business and ethical implications of the fraud, its impact on Native Hawaiian communities, and the need for greater oversight of government contracting.
The recent embezzlement case involving a prominent Hawaiian defense contractor has exposed significant flaws in the Small Business Administration's (SBA) 8(a) program, which is designed to benefit Native Hawaiian communities. This editorial examines the implications for local businesses, investors, and the integrity of federal contracting in Hawaii.
The Honolulu Liquor Commission is searching for a new senior-level executive to lead the agency, following a period of internal and external challenges, including lawsuits alleging discrimination and misconduct. This appointment is critical for ensuring accountability and transparency within the commission, impacting businesses across Oahu.
Maui Mayor Richard Bissen's upcoming appointment to fill the vacant County Council seat left by the late Tasha Kama is poised to influence local business decisions and development. The choice will shape the council's direction, impacting various sectors across the island.
The Honolulu City Council is advancing a new resolution aimed at fostering greater trust and transparency between the local government and Oahu residents. This initiative has significant implications for local businesses, entrepreneurs, and the broader community, promising to reshape how the council interacts and collaborates with its constituents.
Big Tobacco continues to aggressively market its addictive products, posing a significant health threat to Hawaii's youth and contributing to preventable deaths. This article examines the industry's practices and the detrimental effects of tobacco use in the state.
Kamehameha Schools, a prestigious educational institution in Hawaii, is once again facing legal challenges to its admissions policy, which gives preference to Native Hawaiian applicants. This ongoing debate has implications for the local business community, particularly concerning diversity, equity, and inclusion.
An investigation by the Attorney General's office suggests that the Governor's office may have removed Isaac Choy from his position at the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) because he was pursuing an audit of a $27 million contract awarded to the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (CNHA). This revelation raises serious concerns about transparency and accountability in the allocation of state funds.
Hawaii's Attorney General, Anne Lopez, is part of a bipartisan coalition pressuring Shopify to take stronger action against merchants selling illegal e-cigarettes on its platform. The coalition is pushing for a more robust approach to prevent the sale of these products, which often target young people.
Senator Mazie K. Hirono, along with the Senate Democratic Caucus, has introduced legislation aimed at reversing recent cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), potentially impacting food security for many Hawaii residents and businesses. The 'Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act of 2025' seeks to mitigate the effects of these cuts and support vulnerable populations.