Latest policy & regulation news and updates
Martin Kao, a former Hawaii defense contractor, has been sentenced to prison for making illegal campaign donations. The judge's decision emphasizes the need for ethical conduct and adherence to campaign finance laws within the state's business landscape.
Hawaii is facing severe economic consequences due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, with Governor Green reporting losses of $120 million per week. This financial strain is impacting multiple sectors across the state's economy, raising concerns for local businesses, investors, and the overall economic stability.
The Hawaii State Department of Education (HIDOE) is actively encouraging families impacted by the ongoing federal government shutdown to apply for free or reduced-price school meals. This initiative aims to support families experiencing income changes due to furloughs or job losses, ensuring students have access to nutritious meals during this challenging period.
Hawaii nonprofits facing financial strain due to federal funding reductions can now apply for state grants totaling $50 million. This initiative, authorized by Act 310 (Senate Bill 933), aims to mitigate the impact of federal cuts on crucial community services.
A recent column in the *Honolulu Star-Advertiser* urges a pragmatic approach to Hawaii's climate change policies, highlighting the rising costs that businesses and residents face. With new taxes and regulations taking effect, local entrepreneurs and investors need to carefully consider the financial implications of the state's climate initiatives.
The Hawaii Tax Department is facing allegations that its director, Gary Suganuma, has fostered a hostile work environment. These claims, if substantiated, could negatively influence the Department's operational efficiency and pose risks to tax compliance, thereby affecting businesses operating in the Aloha State.
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing government transparency. Projects like Grassroot's "Open Hearings" are leveraging AI to provide readily available summaries and transcripts of government proceedings, which can significantly impact business operations and strategic planning in Hawaii.
Following the retirement announcement of State Senator Henry Aquino, the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi’s Oʻahu County Committee has forwarded three potential candidates to Governor Josh Green to fill the vacant Senate District 19 seat. This transition in political leadership has implications for businesses and investors within the Pearl City-Waipahu-West Loch area and potentially across the state.
Following the announcement of Senator Henry Aquino's retirement, the Democratic Party of Hawaii's Oahu County Committee has forwarded three candidates to Governor Josh Green for consideration to fill the vacant Senate District 19 seat. This appointment could influence future legislative decisions that affect Hawaii's business landscape.
Families in Hawai'i affected by the federal government shutdown can now apply for free school meals to help alleviate financial strain. This aid is crucial, especially as some Hawai'i households already rely on federal assistance programs for basic needs such as food.
The Hawai‘i Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced forthcoming changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), impacting eligibility and benefits for many residents. These updates, effective October 1, 2025, are crucial for both individuals and businesses to understand.
A recent decision by the Hawaii State Legislature to allocate $50 million in grants to local nonprofits has sparked both praise and scrutiny. Critics are questioning the transparency of the process, particularly given the small committee overseeing fund distribution, while proponents highlight the vital role these funds play in supporting community services.
Hawaii is among nearly two dozen states suing the Trump administration over the cancellation of a $7 billion federal grant program designed to boost solar energy access in low-income communities. The move threatens several community solar projects in Hawaii, potentially impacting local businesses and residents.
The House Finance Committee recently concluded a visit to Maui, inspecting key sites including UH Maui College, Maui Food Bank, and Maui Memorial Medical Center, signaling potential budget and policy focus areas. This tour provides valuable insights for Hawaii's businesses and investors, who are keen to understand the state's financial direction.
Recent changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) have raised questions regarding work requirements, particularly for Native Hawaiians. This article explores the new regulations and clarifies whether Native Hawaiians are exempt from these requirements, offering a vital resource for individuals and families in the state.
In a significant development for healthcare in Hawaii, the state has agreed to a settlement in a case challenging restrictions on traditional midwives. This decision allows midwives, and particularly Native Hawaiian practitioners, to continue providing pregnancy and birth care without facing penalties, impacting both healthcare access and cultural practices.
Recent discussions surrounding federal recognition for Native Hawaiians have resurfaced, sparking debate and raising potential implications for businesses and investment in the state. Critics are questioning the motivations behind the Office of Hawaiian Affairs' (OHA) push for federal recognition, which could lead to significant changes in governance and resource management.
The Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) Board of Trustees has voted down a proposed 35% pay increase for CEO Stacy Ferreira, who has been on paid leave since September. The decision highlights ongoing leadership uncertainty and financial scrutiny within the organization.
Hawai'i lawmakers have reached an agreement to revise strict regulations on midwifery, allowing Native Hawaiian practitioners to practice and train without fear of legal repercussions. This legislative shift aims to balance safety with cultural practices and reproductive autonomy, opening new avenues for healthcare providers and impacting the state's healthcare landscape.
Fifteen governors, including Hawaiʻi's Josh Green, have formed the Governors Public Health Alliance. This non-partisan coalition aims to coordinate public health strategies, share resources, and shield key decisions from political interference, potentially affecting health-related businesses and the overall business environment in Hawaiʻi.