Latest policy & regulation news and updates
Honolulu's escalating sewer fee hikes, driven by infrastructure upgrades mandated to meet federal clean water standards, pose significant financial challenges for local businesses, especially those in tourism and hospitality. The city's wastewater issues, including persistent environmental violations, demand urgent attention, requiring businesses to understand and adapt to the changing regulatory and economic landscape.
The Honolulu City Council has approved a measure that allows private sponsorships of city parks and other public facilities. This initiative is designed to boost city revenue.
Hawaii faces increased financial responsibility for disaster relief as FEMA shifts its funding model, requiring states to cover 50% of response costs. This policy change impacts the state's budget, potentially affecting businesses and residents while emphasizing the need for stronger preparedness and diverse funding sources.
U.S. authorities are reassessing the security risks associated with Chinese-made solar inverters after hidden communication devices were found in them, which will have a significant effect on Hawaii's renewable energy projects and potential investments. This situation compels a reevaluation of current infrastructure and could result in changes to policy and regulation.
Honolulu's plan to use visitor taxes for sewer repairs signals a potential shift in how tourism is funded in Hawaii, which could have implications for travelers, businesses, and the state's economy. This move raises questions, about the long-term financial strategies for the islands.
Honolulu City Council is acting to soften the blow of a planned 115% increase in sewer fees over ten years. This measure, if passed, aims to balance the required infrastructure upgrades with the economic well-being of Honolulu's residents and businesses, especially those in the tourism, hospitality, and other water-intensive sectors.
A new bill, backed by senators, promises to increase reimbursements for Hawaii's farmers and ranchers, offsetting the costs of transporting essential supplies and potentially strengthening the local agricultural sector.
Maui County faces scrutiny over a shift in its homelessness strategy, questioning the value of a $240,000 plan after the 2023 wildfires. The focus changed, now prompting reviews of accountability and governance in the use of public funds on the island.
The County of Maui is investing $450,000 across nine projects under the Department of ʻŌiwi Resources. This funding presents potential opportunities for local businesses by helping create cultural tourism initiatives, resource management, and sustainability projects.
Par Hawaii has been fined nearly $170,000 by the Hawaii Department of Health for hazardous waste violations, highlighting the importance of businesses adhering to the state's environmental regulations.
The recent U.S.-China agreement to temporarily lower tariffs has significant implications for Hawaii's businesses, which depend on international trade. Reduced tariffs present opportunities for increased profitability and economic growth but also require businesses to remain adaptable to changing trade dynamics.
The Hawaii Department of Transportation is moving forward with its speed camera program expansion, despite a failed legislative effort to broaden the system. This decision will likely impact businesses and drivers on the islands.
The recent legislative session in Hawaii has concluded, bringing significant changes to the state's regulatory landscape that could affect many industries. Businesses are advised to be watchful of new regulations, and investors should stay informed about the bills passed.
Proposed federal legislation, backed by Honolulu police and state law enforcement, seeks to regulate ghost guns, potentially affecting Hawaii's firearms businesses and investors by increasing compliance costs and altering market dynamics.
The recent rejection of the U.S. Army's lease extension for the Pohakuloa Training Area by Hawaii's land board has significant implications for the state's economy and military operations, impacting various sectors from tourism to real estate and creating uncertainties for both entrepreneurs and investors.
Maui County's proposed budget includes $12 million for the Kamaʻāina Credit program, designed to support ALICE households. This initiative, part of a $1.56 billion budget, aims to bolster the local economy and support residents facing financial challenges.
The 2025 Hawaii legislative session has wrapped up, with crucial bills on their way to the Governor's desk, potentially influencing business taxation and regulations, requiring proactive responses from Hawaii's business community.
A recent court ruling on the Red Hill fuel spill finds the military legally responsible, a decision that will likely lead to more scrutiny regarding environmental regulations. This ruling has broader implications for businesses in Hawaii, potentially increasing costs and affecting land use.
The ongoing dispute between the Hawaii Nurses’ Association and The Queen’s Medical Center, currently under review by the National Labor Relations Board, has significant implications for Hawaii's businesses, especially those involved in labor relations. The outcome of this review will reshape the future of union-employer relations.
A new bill introduced by Honolulu City Council Chair Tommy Waters seeks to mitigate the impact of the city's upcoming 115% sewer fee hike, which is scheduled to start this summer. This legislation aims to offset the rising costs and ease the burden particularly on local businesses.