Latest policy & regulation news and updates
The Hawaii Department of Transportation is moving forward with plans to expand its automated camera system, despite a legislative bill failing to pass, sparking discussions about public safety and businesses.
Hawaii's recently concluded legislative session has ushered in tax increases and a tax cut, creating a complex situation for businesses in the Islands. This legislative overview underscores the need for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals to understand the immediate and long-term effects on their financial planning and business strategies.
A new bill awaiting the Governor's signature in Hawaii will require retailers to label the origin of raw ahi products. This legislation has significant implications for the local fishing industry, tourism and hospitality, and also gives consumers more information.
This article analyzes the voting records of Hawaii's Congressional delegation, highlighting their potential impact on businesses and investors across various sectors in the state. It emphasizes the importance of understanding legislative priorities for strategic planning and adapting to the changing regulatory environment.
Hawaiʻi lawmakers are pushing to increase Medicare physician payments to ease the financial burdens on healthcare providers and ensure seniors have access to necessary care, which is crucial for the state's economic health and business landscape.
The rejection of the EIS for the Pohakuloa Training Area by Hawaii's BLNR highlights rising scrutiny of land use and environmental compliance, affecting businesses involved in real estate and military-related sectors.
Hawaii's recent legislative decisions, including a climate “green fee” and measures to support Hawaiian Electric Company, will deeply affect business and economic policies. These changes create new financial and logistical burdens for businesses while also offering potential long-term benefits for environmental sustainability and disaster preparedness.
Hawaii's legislature concluded its session with a new "green" tax and shuffled leadership, potentially reshaping the state's business environment. These policy changes could impact various sectors, necessitating that entrepreneurs and investors understand the shifting regulatory landscape to align with sustainability and economic growth.
New legislation awaiting Governor Green's signature in Hawaii aims to strengthen the enforcement of fireworks regulations, potentially impacting businesses and residents alike. This law could lead to increased restrictions, affecting tourism and event planning, and increase scrutiny over the use of fireworks.
With the June 23, 2025, deadline approaching, Hawaii's judicial appointments for the ICA and First Circuit Court are critical for the legal and business environment. These selections substantially influence the state's economic conditions, business regulations, and investment climate.
The potential defunding of Maui's Head Start program, a crucial resource for low-income families, is sparking concern. The absence of early childhood education would have cascading effects on local communities. Businesses, families, and policymakers must consider the impact.
The Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources rejected the Army's EIS for the Pohakuloa Training Area's lease renewal, potentially affecting businesses dependent on military contracts and operations due to possible delays and increased regulations.
The BLNR's rejection of the Army's EIS for Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA), coupled with the lease expiring in 2029, creates a regulatory challenge and opportunity for Hawaii businesses. This decision underscores the growing emphasis on environmental protections, potentially reshaping future land use policies and impacting various sectors.
The BLNR's decision to deny the U.S. Army's EIS at Pōhakuloa Training Area signals a heightened focus on environmental regulations, impacting businesses and investments in Hawaii. This ruling underscores the importance of environmental compliance and sustainability in the state's business landscape.
Hawaii is set to announce a significant settlement with several pharmaceutical companies, which is expected to have major financial and regulatory implications for the state. The settlement details, to be released by Governor Green and Attorney General Lopez, could impact various sectors, drive investment opportunities, and influence the regulatory environment for businesses and healthcare providers in Hawaii.
A recent report from Hawaii Free Press raises questions about the potential influence of campaign contributions on climate change lawsuits in Hawaii, specifically regarding the exclusion of Par Hawaii, the state's only oil refinery. This situation could impact energy policy, business regulations, and the state's sustainability goals.
Chris Todd's appointment as the new Chair of the House Finance Committee in Hawaii signals a potential shift in financial policies and business regulations. This change impacts entrepreneurs, investors, and businesses, necessitating close monitoring of upcoming legislative actions.
UHERO's analysis suggests that federal policies may contribute to a mild recession in Hawaii, impacting business confidence and economic stability. This will require strategic adaptation from entrepreneurs and investors across the islands.
President Trump's suggestion of an 80% tariff on Chinese goods could significantly impact Hawaii's economy. The tariffs could affect import costs, consumer prices, and trade relations, creating challenges for businesses and investors in the state.
A recent limited trade agreement between the U.S. and the U.K. maintains tariffs on British exports, potentially impacting Hawaii businesses involved in import and export, and prompting the need for local businesses to adapt to the changing trade landscape.