Hawai‘i News

Hawai‘i comes in first — at being worst state for business

The fix for a bad business climate isn’t more bureaucracy. It’s less. Reducing taxes and regulations help revitalize the economy. If only our lawmakers would embrace those policies more often.

Hawaiʻi State LGBTQ+ Commission elects new chairperson, welcomes 2 new members

Two-term commission vice president Michael Golojuch Jr. is panel’s new leader; Dr. Sylvia Romm and Crissi Doyle, the commission’s first transgender member, added to its ranks.

‘Unexpected and encouraging’: Hawaiian insect discoveries offer hope for rare species

New populations of Hawaiian moths and damselflies found in unexpected locations.

2,000-plus expected to gather for 2026 Native Hawaiian Convention on Oʻahu

The event is July 20-22 at Neal S. Blaisdell Center in Honolulu, features week of Native Hawaiian programming including cultural workshops, discussions about key issues affecting Native Hawaiians and Hawaiʻi’s communities, Nā Mea Hawaiʻi marketplace and special performances.

Green Fee funding available for community-based projects to protect Hawai‘i’s forests, watersheds, wetlands

Funding for these projects is coming from the newly created Green Fee, established in 2025, to support Hawai‘i’s environmental stewardship.

Volcano Watch: When will Halemaʻumaʻu fill with lava?

The easiest answer to the question of whether lava will flow out of the caldera is — it depends!

Nominees sought for AARP 2026 Andrus Award for Community Service

Award honors volunteers 50 years old and older who share their experience, talent and skills to not just make a difference in their communities but enrich them; nomination deadline is Sept. 1.

Gov. Josh Green signs 266 measures into law after hosting 18 bill signing ceremonies

Gov. Josh Green issued one veto from the intent-to-veto list, which the fewest vetoes in recent history.

News in brief for July 16: New board members, new flights, free professional development and more

A quick look at news happening throughout the state and beyond.

Kauaʻi Police Department launches cadet program for aspiring young professionals

Cadets will gain insight into the many paths available within law enforcement while problem-solving and professional skills.

Special community meeting to feature candidate for Hawai‘i lieutenant governor Kaua‘i County Mayor Kawakami

The Indivisible Kaua‘i hybrid meeting, which can be attended in-person or online via Zoom, also includes Deirdre Romney, who will present information about understanding U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agreements, what they are and why communities are reconsidering them.

Gov. Josh Green signs pivotal bills that set Hawaiʻi on path toward clean energy economy

These measures promise economic growth, job creation, and improved public and environmental health.

Voters to receive ballot by July 21 for upcoming Hawai‘i Primary Elections

Hawai‘i Office of Elections also reminds state voters about how to track their ballots, troubleshooting problems and more.

Governor signs measures supporting kūpuna care, strengthening artificial intelligence protections

House Bill 1853 establishes the Hānai Memory Network Program, building a statewide network of dementia care specialists and community support services; House Bill 2137 established consumer protection standards for deepfake tech, while Senate Bill 3001 places requirements on artificial intelligence operators.

Mariner hoisted from sinking catamaran offshore of Kaua‘i

The vessel sank shortly after the hoist was completed, with approximately 30-40 gallons of diesel fuel, two batteries, and 3-4 gallons of oil on board.

Senate president Ronald D. Kouchi honored in Azores for leadership, Portuguese heritage

The Azores Day ceremonies recognize individuals whose achievements exemplify the enduring contributions of the Azorean diaspora around the world.

Gov. Josh Green enacts laws to strengthen Hawaiʻi education system

New laws strengthen the educator workforce, promote safer schools, improve access to nutritious meals, and help with college expenses.

Flags ordered to half-staff following death of US Sen. Lindsey Graham

At the direction of the President of the United States, flags are to be lowered immediately for the South Carolina senator and remain at half-staff until sunset on July 18.

Oʻahu student wins free 2026 Corolla from Toyota Hawaiʻi

The dealership’s Cap & Corolla Giveaway supports students, recent graduates and first-time vehicle buyers.

State Education Department serves nearly 145K free summer meals by end of June

More than 52,000 breakfasts and 93,000 lunches were served as of June 30 at 74 participating public schools via U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Seamless Summer Option.
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