Ronen Zilberman/Civil Beat/2020
Hawaiʻi Lawmakers Are Pushing For Car-Free Fun Zones — But Not On Oʻahu
Some Oʻahu lawmakers worry the program could snarl traffic in their districts.
Cory Lum/Civil Beat/2022
‘Damning’ Report: Hawaiʻi Falls Short Helping Inmates Reenter Society
The study says the lack of effective reentry programs is one reason so many inmates get in trouble again soon after release.
David Croxford/Civil Beat/2024
Bills To Loosen The Grip Of Special Interests Are Still Alive — So Far
Three measures to finally upgrade Hawaiʻi’s public campaign financing survived crossover at the Legislature.
David Croxford/Civil Beat/2025
Hawaiʻi House Wants To Set Aside $200 Million As A Hedge Against Hard Times
Lawmakers are worried about the potential impact from federal budget cuts.
David Croxford/Civil Beat/2025
Salary Commission Approves Hefty Raises For Legislators, State Officials
The raises automatically take effect on July 1 unless lawmakers reject them.
David Croxford/Civil Beat/2025
Hawaiʻi Legislature: Green Fee, New Taxes, Fireworks Enforcement Move Ahead
As the Legislature reaches the halfway mark, the House killed a bill to remove vaccine exemptions for schoolchildren while the Senate approved creating an illegal fireworks enforcement division.
Cory Lum/Civil Beat/2022
Hawaiʻi House Advances Sports Betting Bill
Proponents say the bill would result in millions of dollars in tax revenue for Hawaiʻi but some lawmakers fear it would create financial and social issues for gambling addicts.
David Croxford/Civil Beat/2023
Trump’s Actions Are Creating A Budget Problem For Hawaiʻi Lawmakers
Halfway through the session, legislative priorities are emerging. But the new uncertainties mean lawmakers may need a special session to fine tune.
David Croxford/Civil Beat/2023
Hawaiʻi’s Legislature Needs Reform Before It Gets More Pay
The state Salary Commission is poised to give lawmakers and other state officials big pay raises. But it needs to scale back its thinking on legislators for now.
David Croxford/Civil Beat/2024
Tension And Turmoil At The Hawaiʻi Elections Commission
Is the commission still able to do its job amid unceasing questions about election fairness, continued calls to fire top officials and hours-long meetings plagued by infighting?