Hawai'i State News
Leaders in tourism, public safety to tackle safety challenges during annual conference
The 8th annual Visitor Public Safety Conference on Jan. 7, 2026 in Honolulu will feature panels on emergency management, safety solutions and financial crimes against visitors.
2025 Suzanne Richmond-Crum Award winner honored on World AIDS Day
Kunane Dreier is this year’s winner, tabbed and celebrated for his outstanding contributions to HIV services in Hawai‘i.
Pohai advances to ‘Hawai‘i to the World’ finale
Hawai‘i Island singing group will compete Dec. 14 for title of top act in the televised talent competition celebrating Hawai‘i’s next generation of artists, musicians, dancers and creators, plus a $10,000 grand prize.
‘This is life-changing’: Largest number of homeless veterans in 7 years housed by Veterans Affairs
Veterans Affairs Pacific Islands Health Care System helped house 459 veterans locally during fiscal year 2025.
SNAP benefits in jeopardy again as Trump threatens to freeze funds for Democratic-controlled states
Trump’s administration says funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also still commonly referred to as food stamps, would not be distributed starting next week unless those states give up information about benefit recipients.
Public encouraged to support University of Hawaiʻi students on Giving Tuesday
Make a meaningful difference in a University of Hawaiʻi student’s life this Giving Tuesday; help them stay focused when unexpected challenges arise and know they are cared for, valued and able to thrive.
Monthly statewide siren test, audio broadcast segment is scheduled for Monday
Outdoor siren and Emergency Alert System test is scheduled for 11:45 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 1, reminding residents to think about response to real emergencies.
Military leased lands panel begins laying groundwork for future talks with U.S. Army
Members used their inaugural meeting — in advance of meeting with the governor — to review their roles and responsibilities, discuss a general framework to proceed and develop a shared understanding of the choices before the state — lease, land exchange and condemnation.
DAGS getting new digs in Honokaʻa
$8 million project will double the Hawaiʻi Department of Accounting and General Services workspace in the Hāmākua community and increase productivity for North Hawaiʻi
Expanding the flock: 2 more ʻalalā added to wild cohort already free on Maui
The two new birds, both a year younger than their 5 other more established counterparts, are now taking their turn at calling the release aviary home, where they are acclimating to the sights and sounds of the forest and using the secure space to strengthen their flight and landing muscles.
CONSUMER ALERT: Hawaiʻi shoppers urged to know their refund, exchange rights
“Understanding your rights before you buy can help prevent disputes and protect your wallet” during the busy holiday shopping season, said Hawaiʻi Office of Consumer Protection Executive Director Mana Moriarty.
Hawaiʻi’s U.S. representatives Tokuda, Case want to hear from public about priorities entering 2026
U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda and U.S. Rep. Ed Case have each put out their own survey, which they want their constituents to fill out to better understand priorities for 2026.
Hawai’i Attorney General joins bipartisan coalition calling on Shopify to crackdown on e-cigarettes
The coalition highlights that a more comprehensive solution is necessary because merchants continue to use Shopify’s services to sell illegal e-cigarettes.
UH astronomers reveal history of red giant through ‘stellar vibrations’
Much like seismic waves reveal Earth’s inner layers, these stellar vibrations gave scientists a rare glimpse beneath the star’s surface.
Traveling for Thanksgiving? Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation says plan ahead
Travelers can take simple steps to plan ahead for the holidays that “will make the process smoother and less stressful” said Ed Sniffen, director of the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation.
Department of Budget and Finance director named as 2026 legislative session approaches
Prepared to navigate federal fiscal challenges, Seth Colby, Ph.D., will take the helm as Director of the Department of Budget and Finance starting Dec. 8.
Man dies after rescuing two children in high surf on Kauaʻi; another man dies while snorkeling
One victim was a 47-year-old service man stationed at the Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands, while the other victim was a 56-year-old visitor from California.
Castle Resorts & Hotels names Oneha new sales, distribution and marketing chief
Oneha in his new position will focus on driving revenue growth and developing comprehensive sales strategies throughout the organization.
$31M in new federal funding awarded to Hawai‘i for high-speed internet expansion
U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, a Hawai‘i Democrat, said the Aloha State is among the first states in the nation to get proposal approved through the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program.
8 honored for their efforts advancing Hawai‘i’s fruit industry
Hawai‘i Tropical Fruit Growers named recipients of its annual appreciation awards during the recent 35th annual Hawai‘i International Tropical Fruit Conference at Hilo Hawaiian Hotel.
