He replaces outgoing majority leader J. Kalani English.

The governor also said Hawaii’s decision to maintain mask mandates isn’t inconsistent with CDC guidance.

Critics hoped the pandemic would be the catalyst for significant changes to address long-term problems facing Hawaii. But the budget shortfall dominated the 2021 session.

But Gov. David Ige questions the need to reduce funding for the Hawaii Tourism Authority and moving around some state agencies.

The Stadium Authority plans to meet May 6 to discuss the financing and siting of the new stadium.

Mau nō naʻe ka manaʻolana o nā mea kākoʻo he mea nō ia e lōkahi ai no kēia mua aku ma ia mauna i manaʻo ʻia he kapu ʻihiʻihi e nā mea he nui.

The Hawaii Legislature also approved a hefty rental car surcharge increase to squeeze more money out of tourists. The visitor industry is not pleased.

A state panel tasked with redrawing political boundaries for the Legislature will likely miss deadlines because of a hold up in releasing federal data.

The state is gathering ideas for development surrounding the stadium as lawmakers move ahead with giving the Stadium Authority more powers.