New Climate Fee and Other Policy Changes Take Effect in Hawaii This January
Hawaii has implemented the United States’ first climate impact fee along with several other new laws that became effective at the start of 2026. These changes will affect both residents and visitors to Maui and the Hawaiian Islands. Hawaii becomes the first U.S. state to implement a climate impact fee, setting a precedent for environmental […]
Court Decision Halts Proposed Environmental Fee for Cruise Ship Passengers in Hawaii
A federal court has stopped Hawaii from implementing a new environmental tax that would have been charged to cruise ship tourists visiting the islands. The ruling affects planned revenue that was intended to fund climate change mitigation efforts. Federal court blocks Hawaii’s proposed climate-focused tax on cruise ship passengers before implementation The environmental fee was […]
West Maui Wind Energy Project Faces Wildlife Protection Challenges in Lease Renewal Process
The Kaheawa Wind Farm is working to secure a new operating lease while addressing environmental concerns related to protecting endangered species in the area. The outcome could impact Maui’s renewable energy future and local wildlife conservation efforts. Kaheawa Wind Farm’s current lease requires renewal to continue operations in West Maui Environmental groups and regulators are […]
Maui County Revises Access Guidelines for Historic Lahaina Area
Maui County has updated its public access protocols for the Lahaina Historic District, implementing new measures that will affect how residents and visitors can enter and explore this culturally significant area. New access protocols have been established for the Lahaina Historic District following recent county review Changes aim to balance public access with preservation of […]
New Fireworks Regulations Coming to Maui Following Safety Concerns
Hawaii is implementing tougher fireworks regulations in response to a fatal New Year’s Eve incident, with new rules affecting how residents and visitors can use pyrotechnics during celebrations. Enhanced enforcement measures will be in place for upcoming holiday celebrations and events throughout Maui Visitors should be aware that illegal fireworks use can result in significant […]
Puunene Residents Left Without Local Post Office After Permanent Closure
The Puunene Post Office has permanently shut down, leaving residents and businesses in the central Maui community without convenient local postal services. Puunene community members must now travel to neighboring towns for postal services, creating inconvenience for daily mail needs Local businesses and vacation rental operators in the area may face delays in receiving important […]
Maui County Property Tax Policy for Fire-Damaged Properties Draws Resident Concerns
A local resident has raised concerns about Maui County’s approach to property tax assessments on fire-damaged properties, highlighting potential impacts on affected property owners. County property tax policies for fire-damaged properties are being questioned by community members The letter highlights concerns about how fire losses are being handled in property assessments Property owners affected by […]
Maui County Council Unable to Reach Agreement on Proposed Hotel Development Zones
The Maui County Council failed to reach consensus on establishing new zoning districts specifically for hotel developments, leaving the future of tourism accommodation planning in limbo. Council members remain split on whether to create dedicated hotel zoning districts, potentially impacting future tourism development on the island The deadlock reflects ongoing tensions between supporting economic growth […]
Maui Public Transit Goes Green with New Electric Bus Fleet Launch in January
The County of Maui is set to introduce four new all-electric transit buses to its public transportation fleet in January 2025. This eco-friendly initiative represents a significant step toward sustainable public transit on the island, offering visitors and residents a cleaner way to get around Maui. Four new all-electric transit buses will join Maui’s public […]
Local Agriculture Gets Boost: Grant Application Support Sessions Coming to Maui
Educational workshops are being organized to assist Maui’s agricultural community in applying for small-scale funding opportunities. These sessions aim to strengthen the island’s farming and ranching operations through improved access to financial resources. Specialized training sessions will guide local farmers and ranchers through the micro-grant application process The initiative supports Maui’s agricultural sustainability and food […]