Hawaii Seeks Tax on Car Rentals to Fund $904M Employee Payments
Hawaii teachers union proposes closing a tax ‘loophole’ on car rental companies to help fund $200M in pandemic hazard pay, as the state considers nearly $904M total in COVID-related payments to public employees. Teachers union suggests imposing retail tax on car rental company wholesale vehicle purchases to fund $200M in pandemic pay. Governor Green requests […]
Hawaii Lawmakers Push Forward with Cannabis Legalization Efforts
State senators are advancing legislation to create a framework for legal recreational marijuana use in Hawaii. The proposed measures could impact both residents and tourists visiting Maui and other Hawaiian islands. Proposed legislation would establish regulatory framework for adult-use cannabis in Hawaii Changes could affect local tourism industry and visitor experience on Maui Legal cannabis […]
Hawaii Plans Major Environmental Improvements with $130M from New Conservation Fees
The state of Hawaii is set to fund 75 environmental projects using $130 million generated from new green fees, addressing critical conservation needs across the islands. New conservation fees will generate $130 million to fund environmental protection initiatives statewide 75 separate environmental projects are planned to address Hawaii’s conservation challenges The funding will support various […]
Maui’s Mayor Bissen Joins Statewide Leadership Summit with Hawaii Lawmakers
Mayor Richard Bissen will participate in the annual gathering of Hawaii’s county mayors to address state legislators on key issues affecting local communities. This collaborative meeting helps shape policies that directly impact Maui residents and the island’s tourism industry. Annual mayors’ meeting provides direct communication channel between county and state leadership on critical island issues […]
Hawaii Counties Push Forward with New Gun Safety Measures for 2026 Legislative Session
The Hawaii State Association of Counties has included two gun safety proposals in their 2026 legislative package, which could impact regulations across all Hawaiian islands including Maui. These measures are part of the counties’ coordinated effort to address public safety concerns through state-level legislation. Two gun safety proposals are now part of the official 2026 […]
Hawaiʻi Lawmakers Begin New Legislative Session with Focus on Island Priorities
The 33rd Hawaiʻi State Legislature officially commenced on January 21st with traditional opening ceremonies, setting the stage for addressing key issues affecting residents and visitors across the islands. Legislative session opened with customary Hawaiian protocols and ceremonies honoring the state’s cultural traditions Lawmakers are expected to tackle housing affordability and availability issues that impact both […]
Hawaii’s Gun Regulations for Retail and Hospitality Venues Face Potential Supreme Court Challenge
The U.S. Supreme Court appears poised to overturn Hawaii’s current laws restricting firearms in commercial establishments including retail stores and hotels. This potential ruling could significantly impact safety policies for businesses across Maui and throughout the Hawaiian islands. Supreme Court justices indicated during proceedings they may rule against Hawaii’s restrictions on carrying firearms in commercial […]
Hawaii’s 2026 Legislative Session Kicks Off This Week with Focus on Island Communities
The Hawaii State Legislature begins its 2026 session on Wednesday, where lawmakers will address key issues affecting Maui and other island communities. Residents and visitors can expect discussions on tourism, housing, infrastructure, and economic recovery initiatives. Legislative session officially starts Wednesday, bringing together state representatives to tackle Hawaii’s most pressing challenges Expected focus areas include […]
Supreme Court to Review Hawaii’s Gun Regulations in Major Legal Challenge
The U.S. Supreme Court will examine Hawaii’s gun control laws in a significant case that could impact firearm regulations statewide. The outcome may affect local safety policies that residents and visitors experience across the islands. Hawaii’s gun control measures are under federal review, potentially affecting local safety regulations The Supreme Court case could change how […]
Hawaii Legislature Sets 2026 Priorities: Housing, Climate Action, and Economic Recovery Take Center Stage
Both chambers of the Hawaii Legislature have unveiled their key priorities for the 2026 session, with affordable housing, climate resilience, and economic diversification emerging as top bipartisan concerns. The legislative agenda reflects ongoing efforts to address Maui’s recovery needs while tackling statewide challenges affecting residents and visitors alike. Senate Majority plans to prioritize affordable housing […]