Latest policy & regulation news and updates
The Maui County Council is considering extending property tax relief for Lahaina property owners affected by the devastating 2023 wildfires. This potential extension, if passed, would offer crucial financial support to homeowners and businesses navigating the long road to recovery.
Recent voting records of Hawaii's Congressional delegation from November 21, 2025, offer insights into legislative priorities that could affect local businesses and the state's economic trajectory. Understanding these votes is crucial for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals seeking to anticipate and adapt to potential policy changes.
Honolulu residents are facing a new $125 annual fee per vehicle for overnight street parking in designated Restricted Parking Zones (RPZs). This change, impacting areas previously exempt from charges, has raised concerns, particularly among senior citizens and those on fixed incomes.
Disagreements with the Hawaii Department of Taxation can be challenging for businesses. Understanding the appeals process, potential pitfalls, and available resources is crucial for safeguarding financial interests in the state.
Following Hawaii's precedent-setting $700 million settlement with pharmaceutical companies over the blood thinner Plavix, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a similar lawsuit, signaling a potential shift in how states approach pharmaceutical litigation. This move has significant implications for both the pharmaceutical industry and the legal landscape.
U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda has reintroduced bipartisan legislation to streamline access to federal grants for Native Hawaiian arts and cultural organizations. This bill aims to remove administrative obstacles, potentially injecting much-needed resources into the local cultural economy.
Following the passing of Council Member Tasha Kama, three candidates are vying to fill the vacant Kahului seat, bringing forth distinct policy approaches and visions for the district's business environment. The selection process highlights varied perspectives on key issues impacting local entrepreneurs and the broader Maui community.
In response to anticipated federal funding cuts, four Hawaii lawmakers have awarded $49.5 million in emergency grants to 95 local nonprofits. This initiative aims to support essential services and mitigate the impact of reduced federal support for vital community programs.
In response to anticipated federal funding cuts under the Trump administration, a group of Hawaii lawmakers has allocated $49.5 million in emergency grants to 95 local nonprofits. This initiative aims to mitigate the impact of reduced federal support on vital social services and community programs throughout the state.
Maui's County Council is facing a critical decision as it attempts to fill a vacant seat, with the controversial vacation rental bill serving as a significant point of contention among potential candidates. The outcome of this appointment could have lasting impacts on the island's housing market, tourism industry, and overall economic landscape.
Hawaii's state government is stepping in to support local nonprofits facing challenges from potential federal funding cuts, allocating over $49 million to assist organizations providing critical services. This proactive measure aims to mitigate the impact on vulnerable communities and ensure the continuation of essential programs.
Ninety-five Hawaii organizations have been awarded grants from a $50 million state fund, established under Act 310, to offset federal funding cuts impacting critical community services. This initiative, a response to potential reductions in federal support for areas such as healthcare, human services, and education, provides vital relief to local nonprofits.
The Honolulu City Council is considering the deregulation of taxi rate regulations through Bill 42, a move designed to allow the taxi industry to compete more effectively with Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft. This potential shift marks a significant development in Honolulu's transportation landscape, with implications for small businesses, tourism, and investment in the sector.