#approved

Youth-led constitutional climate case settled with bold commitment from Hawaiʻi Transportation Department

Thirteen youth from throughout the Hawaiian Islands brought the Navahine v. Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation constitutional climate case in June 2022, asserting their rights to a safe and healthy climate and asking the Hawaiʻi state government to act to meet the climate emergency and enable the state’s paradigm shift to a climate-safe, zero-emissions transportation system.

Hawai‘i County Council approves first reading of $1.19 billion budget for FY 2023-24

The proposed Hawai‘i County operating budget for the next fiscal year includes estimated revenues and appropriations of more than $831.6 million, with the suggested capital budget seeking more than $358 million for capital improvement projects on the Big Island.

Council Approves Second and Final Reading of Sunscreen Bill

After more than three hours of public testimony Wednesday morning, the vast majority of which was in support of protecting human health and the island’s coral reefs, the Hawai‘i County Council approved the second and final reading of Bill 167, prohibiting the sale and distribution for sale of any non-mineral sunscreen on the Big Island.

County to Offer Free Bus Fares

The Hawai‘i County Council on Wednesday approved the second and final reading of Bill 105, which temporarily suspends fares for all fixed bus routes and paratransit services offered by Hele-On until Dec. 31, 2023.

Public Hearing Approved for Proposed New Rules for Lay Nets

The state will have a meeting and public hearing to establish a new annual lay net permit requirement and fee.