Government & Politics
ASD’s eye on the people in state and local government making decisions that impact you where you live.
Some days, we report on the little things you see every day, such as road closures or park improvements. Other days, we look at the big plans from Hawai‘i's governor and its mayors. On the issues that matter to you — education, housing, health, homelessness, the cost of living in Hawai‘i, taxes and spending — we keep an eye on what the Hawai‘i state Legislature and county councilmembers are doing.
News
$126 million for Hawai‘i nonprofits at risk from federal cuts, UHERO reports
UHERO report warns that nonprofit healthcare services are in particular danger.
Michael BrestovanskyOctober 03, 2025
UHERO: ʻHawaiʻi could face a loss of $400 million in Medicaid spendingʻ
A third-quarter forecast released Friday by the University of Hawaiʻi Economic Research Organization notes that proposed federal cuts to SNAP and Medicaid benefits will impact thousands of low-income families across the Islands, especially those in rural areas. Though state tax relief in 2026 will provide some income support, the potential cuts "will be a growing weight" come 2027, UHERO warns.
Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros & Michael BrestovanskySeptember 26, 2025
"Bleak" economic report predicts recession
UHERO forecast warns about rising costs, stagnant jobs as tariffs and federal government job cuts continue.
Michael BrestovanskySeptember 26, 2025
Pipikaula Corner: Dr. Gov. Josh Green, patron saint of perpetual pandemic
A deep dive into Gov. Josh Green's recent emergency proclamation defying federal rules on Covid vaccines.
A. Kam NapierSeptember 25, 2025
DOH endorses Green vaccine emergency order
New FDA vaccine rules too vague to be helpful, says state epidemiologist
Michael BrestovanskySeptember 25, 2025
Green defies FDA vaccine rules
Emergency order allows pharmacists to administer COVID-19 vaccine to people without underlying conditions, opposing federal decisions.
Michael BrestovanskySeptember 24, 2025
Community Voices: Your money stays in Vegas — then the IRS wants some
A trip to Hawai‘i's Ninth Island could have tax ramifications, if you're writing off gambling losses to offset gambling gains. Here's how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is changing those equations, and a look at what the State of Hawai‘i will have to consider regarding its own gambling taxes.
Tom YamachikaSeptember 23, 2025
HPD endorses Green's traffic safety edict
Governor's executive order long awaited by Honolulu law enforcement.
Michael BrestovanskySeptember 20, 2025
CONGRESS WATCH: House split on fossil fuel bills
Hawai‘i reps oppose energy bills.
Michael BrestovanskySeptember 20, 2025
State regulations coming to e-bikes
Gov. Green signs executive order aimed at reducing traffic crashes.
Michael BrestovanskySeptember 18, 2025
CONGRESS WATCH: Hawai‘i reps oppose federal takeover
U.S. House of Representatives approve raft of bills increasing police crackdown in nation's capital.
Michael BrestovanskySeptember 18, 2025
Meet the board chair for the state Agribusiness Development Corp.
Jayson Watts shares about his kuleana and ADC's mission, priorities and long-term vision, while also highlighting the challenges and opportunities ahead for Hawaiʻi’s agricultural community.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosSeptember 17, 2025