Some lawmakers questioned the project, with one calling the maintenance costs a “nightmare.”

George Shimabuku, 84, is one of four Hawaii prisoners serving time in Arizona who died with the disease.

Ige’s chief of staff also suggests upping the “barrel tax” on fossil fuels to help balance the budget.

Inmates and staff at correctional facilities are being infected at a higher rate than anyone else.

The state Council on Revenues says Hawaii will collect $300 million more in taxes this year than previously projected.

Craig Hirai stressed that nothing is settled but dropped some hints about possible tax increases in a House Finance Committee hearing.

Peaceful protesters gathered outside the Hawaii Capitol to support the president and object to the pandemic response.

The Ige administration budget would also “eviscerate” state enforcement of anti-discrimination laws.

It is 16 days before the Legislature opens, but Gov. David Ige is still mulling the options.