North Hawaii News
House Passes $23.3 Billion State Budget
If approved by the Senate, the new budget would add would add $1.35 billion in spending.
Hawaii’s Chief Information Officer Wins National Award
Hawaii is the only state government to gain national recognition at the “Federal 100 Awards” for efforts at improving it’s IT systems.
Report Tallies Economic Impact of Hawaii Beer Distributors
Hawaiians are estimated to consume more than 32 gallons of beer per person. According to a recent study, beer distributors generate over $200 million annually in the Hawaii economy.
State Unemployment Benefits Now Payable by Direct Deposit
Direct deposit of benefits to be available to all residents by April 2013.
Push to Relax Immigration Rules on Families of Filipino WW2 Vets
Relaxing visa restrictions would help an estimated 20,000 children of World War 2 vets reunite with their parents in the US.
Google Settles With States on Data Interception
The internet giant admits in its settlement that its camera cars incorrectly gathered information from unsecured Wi-Fi networks.
Marijuana Decriminalization Bill Goes Metric in House
A version of the Senate bill to be considered by the House Judiciary Committee on Thursday has a variety of changes, most involving weights and measures.
Medical Director Named for Hospital’s Native Hawaiian Program
Dr. Leina`ala Crawford will provide medical guidance for North Hawaii Community Hospital’s Kaheleaulani program.
T-Shirt Sales Benefit Big Island Food Bank Efforts
The proceeds from the “Malama” T-shirt sales are helping to feed the island’s hungry.
No Threat to Hawaii from 6.7-magnitude South Pacific Quake
There is no tsunami threat to Hawaii from a 6.7-magnitude earthquake off Papua New Guinea.
Forfeiture Bill Dead for 2013 Session
The bill labelled “Draconian” because it would have allowed seizure of homes for a petty misdemeanor is done for the year.
Proposed Law Would Toughen ‘Owner-Builder’ Requirements
The pair of bills would require that owner-builders deduct taxes from workers and provide them with workers’ compensation insurance.
Masagatani Confirmed to Head Hawaiian Homes Commission
Masagatani has an extensive resume that includes a seven-year stint as the commission’s deputy director.
Mainland Clocks ‘Spring Forward’ on Sunday
Daylight Savings Time goes into effect at 2 a.m. Sunday, local times, meaning clocks there will move one hour ahead.
Police Release March 8 List of Arrest Warrants
The Hawaii Police Department has released its weekly list of some of the individuals wanted on outstanding warrants.
Legislature Considering Allowing Election-Day Registration
Current state law requires that voters register at least 30 days prior to the election.
Ceremony Wednesday Recognizes 80th Police Recruit Class
The 20 recruits have completed six months of training and will spend four more months in the company of veteran officers before going on solo duty.
Request Renewed for Help Finding Missing Puna Man
Police said Robert Allen Park was last seen Oct. 22 at a Mountain View home.
Loophole on Gun Owner Background Checks Under Scrutiny
State lawmakers are considering a bill that would extend the background checks to those bringing in a firearm from out of state.
