Latest policy & regulation news and updates
A new law in Hawaii now imposes civil liabilities on individuals who make false police reports, effectively targeting what is often referred to as "Karen" behavior. The legislation aims to deter the misuse of law enforcement resources and protect individuals from harassment.
Hawaii's new law, Act 259, which went into effect on September 2nd, aims to prevent the misuse of emergency services for discriminatory purposes, potentially impacting businesses and community relations. This legislation provides civil recourse for individuals targeted by biased reporting to law enforcement.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green has launched the Engage Hawaiʻi website, a platform designed to increase transparency and facilitate public input on critical state matters. Initially, the website will focus on the future of U.S. Army land leases, an issue with significant implications for residents, military families, and the state's economic landscape.
The State of Hawaii has launched the "Engage Hawaiʻi" website, a new platform designed to facilitate public comment on military land leases and increase government transparency. This initiative, announced by Governor Josh Green, provides a critical avenue for residents to voice their opinions on matters with significant implications for land use and the local economy.
An audit has uncovered that the Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) maintained a secret fund used for unbudgeted equipment purchases, raising questions about financial oversight and potentially impacting local businesses. The lack of council approval for these expenditures raises concerns about transparency and accountability in government spending.
U.S. Representative Ed Case has introduced a bill, HR4839, which aims to reform the Jones Act by providing a major tax break for vessel modifications. This could significantly impact Hawaii's shipping costs and the competitiveness of local businesses, warranting careful consideration by entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers.
A recent audit by the Office of the City Auditor has revealed a lack of transparency within a Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) fund. This fund, which collects public payments for fire plan reviews related to the city's building code, is now under scrutiny for its operational practices.
Hawaii's newly established Green Fee Advisory Council faces a critical deadline: by January, they must finalize recommendations on how to allocate funds generated by the state’s innovative climate impact fee. This decision will significantly impact environmental protection, tourism, and the overall business landscape of the islands.
A recent audit reveals significant transparency issues within a Honolulu Fire Department fund responsible for collecting payments related to building code fire plan reviews. This lack of transparency raises concerns for businesses and the public, particularly regarding how funds are managed and utilized.
Hawaii's Labor Day saw hundreds of workers and advocates gather at the state Capitol to protest policies perceived as detrimental to working families and exacerbate economic inequality. The rallies, mirroring national trends, reflected growing concerns about the impact of political decisions on Hawaii's workforce and business environment.
Hawaii's newly formed Green Fee Advisory Council is under pressure to determine how the state will spend the revenue generated by the nation's first climate impact fee. This initiative, designed to fund environmental resilience and sustainable tourism, is set to take effect in January 2026, with significant implications for businesses across the islands.
A recent lawsuit in Wisconsin, modeled after a landmark climate settlement in Hawaii, highlights the increasing importance of environmental considerations in business and policy. This shift presents both challenges and opportunities for Hawaii's entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals.
The aftermath of the Maui wildfires has raised concerns about increasing utility bills, prompting discussion about the State Division of Consumer Advocacy's role in protecting consumers and the impact of new legislation designed to improve infrastructure resilience. This article explores the critical issues affecting Hawaii's residents and businesses as they grapple with potential cost increases and power reliability concerns.
The 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' brings significant tax relief to Hawaii's service industry workers by excluding up to $25,000 in tips from gross income. This measure, effective through 2028, has implications for both employees and employers across the state, potentially affecting income, tax planning, and business operations.
A recent letter to the editor in the Honolulu Star-Advertiser highlights concerns over project mismanagement and lack of accountability in Hawaii's city and state projects. This raises critical questions for local businesses, investors, and the overall economic landscape.
Two former Red Hill Fuels Department employees have been indicted for allegedly making false statements regarding the May 6, 2021, jet fuel spill at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility. The indictments highlight concerns about transparency and accountability in the wake of the environmental disaster.
Hawaii’s new 'green fee,' established by Act 96, presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses and investors. This pioneering initiative aims to bolster the state's resilience to climate change and protect its invaluable natural resources, offering a fresh perspective on sustainable business practices.
A recent letter urges the inclusion of Chinatown in the proposed Downtown Honolulu Business Improvement District (BID), citing the critical need for enhanced safety, cleanliness, and community input on city planning. This initiative, backed by City Council Bill 51, seeks to revitalize the area by addressing key challenges faced by businesses and property owners.
A new federal tax provision allows tipped employees in Hawaii to exclude up to $25,000 of their tip income from their gross income, potentially providing significant tax savings. This change will likely have a notable impact on Hawaii's hospitality and restaurant industries.
A federal appeals court has invalidated many of former President Donald Trump's tariffs, potentially reshaping the landscape of international trade. This decision could have ripple effects on Hawaii's businesses, particularly those involved in import and export activities.