Hawaii budget hikes taxes, erodes reserves, 12% on food stamps, most expensive state to rent, Hilo VA workers exposed to radiation, Kauai seed companies nicked for grubbing violations, HPD OT for Obama hits $228,247, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Moana Surfrider (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Waikiki Hotel Plan Caught In Honolulu's Tangled Web. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Legislature is passing more than $600 million worth of tax increases on businesses, vehicles and personal income. Associated Press.

After months of number crunching and heated debate, lawmakers passed a two-year state budget on Tuesday. They also voted on more than 100 bills. Hawaii News Now.

The state House and Senate sent Gov. Neil Abercrombie yesterday a balanced budget and financial plan with some cushion to close a projected $1.3 billion deficit, but lawmakers have left little in reserve if the economy stagnates further. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers passed the state budget today … with a unanimous vote in the House and a 24-to-one vote in the Senate.Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii lawmakers just balanced the budget. But a class action lawsuit could cost the state $70 million more that legislators didn't account for. Civil Beat.

The state Senate began voting on more than 100 new laws Tuesday morning, with a budget that received mixed reviews, even from its authors. KITV4.

Legislation that starts the process for native Hawaiians to form their own government is heading to Gov. Neil Abercrombie for his approval. Associated Press.

David Louie has been confirmed as Hawaii's attorney general, the last of Gov. Neil Abercrombie's Cabinet appointees to be seated. Associated Press.

A bill that partially delays implementation of a law to lengthen Hawaii’s school day is headed to the governor’s desk after passing both chambers of the state Legislature yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department spent $228,247 on overtime pay during President Barack Obama’s most recent nearly two week visit to Oahu over the Christmas and New Years holiday. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii once again has the most expensive rental housing in the nation. KHON2.

More Hawaii residents use food stamps today than a year ago - almost 12 percent of the population - and even that is below the national average, federal statistics show. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Health said a successful flu immunization program in Hawaii's schools is in jeopardy. KITV4.

Workers in the Hilo veterans outpatient clinic may have been exposed to radiation over the last six years due to insufficient shielding of a radiation therapy machine located in the downstairs oncology clinic. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources and the state Historic Preservation Division have announced the appointment of a new architecture branch chief. Associated Press.

A state prison inmate whose beating at Halawa Correctional Facility was captured by a prison surveillance camera is suing the state and the three prison guards who were fired for beating him. Star-Advertiser.

In response to community concerns, the county has issued multiple notices of violation to two South Shore seed companies for non-permitted grubbing activities in November and December. Garden Island.

Mayor Peter Carlisle today signed into law Bill 61 (2010) CD 2, which revises and updates the City’s North Shore Sustainable Communities Plan that covers lands north of Wahiawa, from Kaena Point to Kawela Bay. Hawaii Independent.

County Council members are looking at making deep cuts to the county budget proposed earlier this year by Mayor Alan Arakawa. Maui News.

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative announced Tuesday that it has received a petition that calls for a member vote on a decision made by the cooperative’s board of directors. Pacific Business News

The Hawaii County Housing Agency took a step toward eliminating cash payments as a way for developers to earn affordable housing credits. West Hawaii Today.

Molokai's own Capt. Clay Ching of Hallelujah Hou Fishing has been featured on the TV program, Hawaii Goes Fishing. Molokai Dispatch.

The United States Department of Agriculture is reminding farmers, ranchers and forest landowners that May 27 is the last day to submit project area proposals for the Biomass Crop Assistance Program. Garden Island.

While the eyes of Hawaii were on Hilo and the Merrie Monarch Festival, a group of 10 Hilo High School students were on the mainland making Hilo proud. Tribune-Herald.

Birthers don't back down, Obama buddy fined for soliciting prostitute, Hawaii mayor kills no-bid police contract with campaign manager, pay raise, APEC, foreclosures, hospitals still on lawmakers' plate, PUC denies First Wind extension, reward for info on Kauai goat-killer, more Hawaii news

Kawaiaha‘o Church (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Kawaiaha‘o Church resumed construction on a multipurpose building yesterday after making changes that include reducing the amount of ground excavation that could disturb unmarked graves. Star-Advertiser.

Work has resumed at Hawaii's oldest church and Christian cemetery for construction of a multi-purpose building. Associated Press.

Leaders of the so-called "birther" movement argued their case over President Barack Obama's U.S. citizenship before a federal appeals court Monday in Southern California, claiming the full birth certificate he released last week had been doctored. Associated Press.

President Obama awarded the nation's highest military decoration to a Maui solider who died on the battlefield while saving the men in his company. Hawaii News Now.

Obama honors Maui soldier killed in Korean war. Associated Press.

State lawmakers are scheduled to vote today on legislation to require hospitals in Hawaii to make public reports of health care-associated infections, a key measure in the industry's move toward improving health care. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii families in danger of losing their homes will be able to meet their lenders face-to-face in an attempt to avoid foreclosure, according to a broad overhaul of state foreclosure laws nearing approval. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, D-Hawaii, asked Hawaii lawmakers today to reconsider funding the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference, which will attract leaders from around the world to Hawaii in November 2011. Hawaii Reporter.

Lawmakers Scramble To Avoid Pay Raise. A Bill To Extend 5% Pay Cut For State Officials Is One Of 120 Left Unfinished. KITV4.

A bold move to buy Oahu's only slaughterhouse may have failed. But lawmakers have found another way to help the struggling facility, opting to give it $750,000 in the state's capital improvement budget. Civil Beat.

The Public Utilities Commission has denied First Wind’s request for an eight-month extension to secure land and finalize details of an agreement on Molokai for a proposed 200 megawatt wind farm. Pacific Business News

Mayor Billy Kenoi late Monday put an end to a planned Police Department contract with his 2008 campaign manager after the no-bid project drew media scrutiny. West Hawaii Today.

Robert R. "Bobby" Titcomb, a close friend of President Barack Obama, accused of soliciting a prostitute in Kakaako, pleaded no contest and was fined $500 yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Maya Soetoro-Ng, President Barack Obama's sister, will speak at a town hall on education tomorrow at Kapiolani Community College. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Company crews restored power to roughly 60,000 customers affected by an outage caused by severe weather. Hawaii News Now.

There is a weather disturbance nearby that has triggered the thunderstorms, heavy rains and even hail on Kula, Maui. KHON2.

Longline fishermen are Hawaii's small boat commercial fishermen's No. 1 concern, followed by criticisms of the state's bottomfishing policies. West Hawaii Today.

A city bus driver who's admitted to reading a newspaper while driving a bus full of passengers won’t lose his job. KITV4.

Homeless people who've lived in vehicles and makeshift structures on Queen Street in Kakaako were cleared from the area Monday. KHON2.

In order to meet fire safety requirements, the state is on the move to build a new 12-inch water line and six-inch sewer line along Kaunakakai Place. Molokai Dispatch.

Sometime between dusk on Thursday and dawn on Friday, a pregnant goat from Kilauea’s Kunana Dairy was gutted and beheaded, her unborn kids dumped next to her insides, sources said Monday. Garden Island.

Hawaii reacts to killing of Osama bin Laden, military boosts alert status, state spending up despite no money, counties get smaller share of hotel tax, university salaries lag, Merrie Monarch pau, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hanama Bay (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A free-diver found a military canister bobbing in the waters off Hanauma Bay yesterday morning, forcing hundreds of people to abandon the marine preserve. Star-Advertiser.

In timing that suggests a link with the announcement of Osama bin Laden's death, U.S. military installations in the Pacific raised their security level from Alpha on Sunday, the lowest level, to Bravo. Star-Advertiser.

The news of the death of the terrorist leader Osama bin Ladin stirred strong emotions on and off base. Security is understandably tight at Kaneohe Marine Base Hawaii. KITV4.

Hawaii officials react to news of Bin Laden's death. KHON2.

President Obama's stunning announcement Sunday about the death of 9-11 mastermind Osama bin Laden, after a decade-long manhunt, drew swift reaction from Hawaii residents. Hawaii News Now.

Even though Hawaii's government is short on cash, it's budgeted spending is still rising. Associated Press.

Hawaii taxpayers are on the hook for about $600 million in new tax revenue to help pay for the state’s new two-year budget. Civil Beat.

Contractors Fear Tax Changes Will Hurt Business. KITV4.

A number of controversial measures died on Friday evening at the Hawaii State Legislature because lawmakers were unable to get their proposals passed out of conference committee before the 6 p.m. deadline. Hawaii Reporter.

Troubled over the long-term viability of the Employees' Retirement System, state lawmakers hope to make significant structural changes to reduce benefit costs for new public workers and stabilize the system over the next generation. Star-Advertiser.

Salaries for University of Hawaii and Chaminade University professors are well below those of many of their colleagues elsewhere in the country, a new survey shows. Associated Press.

County looks ‘OK’ despite cap on TAT. Maui News.

The state Legislature's decision to change how it distributes key state revenues will cost Hawaii County an estimated $1.37 million in the coming budget year, an aide to Mayor Billy Kenoi said Saturday. Tribune-Herald.

Auditor surprised by county’s skyrocketing electric bill in 2010. Garden Island.

As Pattern Energy begins taking action on Molokai to develop a wind farm, two groups are denouncing the Big Wind project, and calling for the neighbor island bidding process to start from scratch. Molokai News.

Hawaii's major hospitals are collaborating to launch the first statewide nurse residency program this summer in an effort to keep more registered nurses in the profession. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers agree that with the help of some sort of financing program, Hawaii residents would be able to easily purchase solar power and energy-saving appliances with no upfront cost. Hawaii Independent.

Rosen Auctions will auction off forfeited property for the Hawaii Department of the Attorney General Saturday, April 30, at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center’s Pikake Room. Pacific Business News

The county Board of Ethics has dismissed additional complaints against Maui County Council Member Mike White over his ties with the visitor industry, White's office announced Friday. Maui News.

Unable to afford its planned Keaau shopping center and unable to fill a bigger one, Puna's biggest private landowner is eying other locations while pursuing smaller developments. Tribune-Herald.

The 48th Merrie Monarch Festival ended Saturday night with musical tributes to the beauty of the islands, the tenderness of love in full bloom and homages aplenty to the last royals of Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii lawmakers agree on budget, Kauai burial site protestors arrested, Lanai fights wind farm, Maui gas hits $6, Four Seasons Resort reopens after tsunami damage, hula proves popular, more Hawaii news

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai will reopen its doors Saturday to the delight of new and loyal patrons who have enjoyed its hospitality and luxury for 15 years. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii legislators agreed on a final version of the state's $11 billion annual budget Thursday before determining exactly how to pay for it. Associated Press.

Hawaii lawmakers agreed on an operating budget Thursday evening that calls for spending an additional $800 million a year for each of the next two years. Civil Beat.

Pushing up against a midnight deadline, state lawmakers are expected to choose today the tax and revenue-generating options they need to balance the budget. Star-Advertiser.

In an unusually early end to an unusually challenging budget process, state lawmakers began laying out the details of the two-year budget that they said eliminated a $1.3 billion potential deficit. KITV4.

The conference committee made up of both House Representatives and Senators approved the state budget by a vote of 28-0 Wednesday night. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii legislators are planning a state budget that funds an end to public employee furloughs while reducing the cost of running the government. KHON2.

Late this afternoon, Hawaii’s House and Senate money committees passed a budget that grows the size of government, restores many cuts lawmakers made earlier this session to Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s budget proposal and includes funding for new state positions. Hawaii Reporter.

A requirement for more class time in Hawaii public schools will be phased in over the next few years, according to compromise legislation reached Thursday that delays parts of a law designed to increase student instruction. Associated Press.

In a last-ditch effort, Sen. Malama Solomon revives casino proposal. Civil Beat.

Taxing pensions is a contentious issue at the legislature this session as lawmakers look at all potential sources of revenue to balance the budget. Hawaii Public Radio.

A proposal to impose "instant runoff" voting in county elections has been tabled at the state Legislature this year. Star-Advertiser.

The state Legislature has given final approval to a two-year extension of a law protecting journalists from having to reveal anonymous sources and private notes. Star-Advertiser.

Ask any council member or county finance officer where Kaua‘i County’s budget stands today and the story is the same: “We’re in a sound financial position,” thanks to years of conservative tax-and-spend policies. Garden Island.

Law enforcement officers arrested two protesters Thursday morning for obstructing a contractor hired by the state government to dig a leach field in Kaumuali‘i Park, next to Wailua River, in an area were human skeletons and old Hawaiian artifacts were reportedly unearthed. Garden Island.

Friends of Lāna‘i petitioned Hawaii’s Public Utilities Commission to reopen the competitive bidding process for the multi-island “Big Wind” project yesterday. Hawaii Independent.

Hula links Hawaii with dancers from hard-hit Japan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii visitor arrivals in March came in 4.2 percent higher than last year, and spending rose 11.8 percent, despite a plunge in Japan arrivals after the earthquake, tsunami and radiation leaks that began March 11. Hawaii News Now.

The price for a gallon of regular gas broke the $6 mark this week in remote Hana, Maui, notching a record that is consistently being topped. Star-Advertiser.

The rising price of gasoline has affected what shoppers pay for food and consumer items, but one business not allowed to pass increases along to the consumer is taxicabs. Tribune-Herald.

In a case of getting what you pay for, Hele-On bus riders may be charged fares for the first time in years and also receive improved service. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii disaster planners continue to learn from the March 11 tsunami event the caused an estimated $30.6 million in damage, most of it at boat harbors on Oahu, Maui and the Big Island. KHON2.

Six Hawaii schools travel to St. Louis for FIRST Championships. KHON2.

Three public advocacy groups have asked the state Reapportionment Commission to rescind its decision to require only three days' public notice for its meetings. Star-Advertiser.

The state Transportation Department’s Halawa Stream Bridge project has run into numerous problems and delays, causing a five-and-a-half-year delay and millions of dollars in cost overruns. KITV4.

The Maui Planning Commission unanimously endorsed an interim state Department of Transportation plan Tuesday to protect Honoapiilani Highway where the ocean continues to threaten the roadway on the Lahaina side of the pali on a pebble beach in Olowalu. Maui News.

It was Maui’s Tori Hulali Canha of Halau Ke‘alaokamaile who took the Miss Aloha Hula title at Merrie Monarch last night by a slim margin of three points. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands of people packed into Hilo's old tennis stadium to witness a performance the likes of which has not been seen for more than a hundred years. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii hopes Obama birther controversy behind it, milk radiation levels drop, Legislature in budget stalemate, state Supreme Court rejects Native Hawaiian tax issue, Maui to sell bus signs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea lehua (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

For kumu hula Maelia Loebenstein Carter, a certain lehua tree at the edge of Kilauea Caldera holds symbolic meaning. Star-Advertiser.

Time is running out in the Hawaii legislative session and lawmakers have reached a stalemate over the budget. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers are racing to craft a State Budget that provides essential government services but closes a 1.3 billion dollar spending gap over the next two years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii lawmakers are nearing decisions on raising a variety taxes and cutting government programs, but they haven't agreed on how to do so yet. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Supreme Court yesterday rejected a taxpayer lawsuit by non-Native Hawaiians seeking the same tax exemptions given to Native Hawaiian lessees under the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act. Star-Advertiser.

For the first time since the nuclear disaster in Japan, extremely miniscule amounts of radioactive strontium has been found in milk samples taken from the Big Island. KHON2.

The state Health Department confirmed that strontium-89 from Japan's nuclear release was detected in Big Island dairy milk after a nationwide high level of cesium also was found in the same April 4 testing. Star-Advertiser.

Until this week, Hawaii officials said they wouldn't release original birth records for anyone, under any circumstances. Even if it was President Barack Obama. Associated Press.

Short-handed staff at the offices of the governor, attorney general and Health Department hope they can finally move on from spending untold hours devoted to the issue of President Barack Obama's place of birth after he released copies of his "long form" birth certificate yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

President Obama’s birth certificate delivers news to doctor’s family. Hawaii News Now.

Ivalee Sinclair always knew her late husband lived an accomplished life, but a call from her daughter early Wednesday morning exceeded her imagination. KITV4.

Dr. David Sinclair's six children grew up accustomed to him often leaving home at all hours and holidays to deliver babies. Associated Press.

According to the state, the president sent a letter April 22 requesting two certified copies of the original certificate of live birth. KHON2.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said it's an insult for anyone to continue to question if President Barrack Obama was born in Hawaii after the state issued his original Certificate of Live Birth Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii State Health Department announced that it complied with a request by President Barack Obama for certified copies of his original Certificate of Live Birth, which is sometimes referred to in the media as a “long form” birth certificate. Hawaii Independent.

Real Estate Mogul Donald Trump received international publicity recently when he dispatched an investigative team to Hawaii to find President Barack Obama’s long form certificate of live birth. Hawaii Reporter.

State Sen. Josh Green, an emergency room physician from Kona, said he has seen too much abuse of the medical marijuana law, especially by young people who claimed severe, chronic pain in order to get a doctor to certify them as a marijuana patient. KITV4.

The county could sell advertising space on the Maui Bus, under a proposal before the Maui County Council. Maui News.

Maui County Council members are balking at a proposal that could significantly increase some Department of Planning permit fees. Maui News.

People whose property was damaged in the March 11 tsunami aren't required to obtain permits before starting repairs. West Hawaii Today.

Honolulu’s jobless rate improved to 5.1 percent in March, down from the 5.3 percent in February and 5.6 percent in March 2010, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ preliminary data that has not been seasonally adjusted. Pacific Business News

State Librarian Richard Burns recently sent a press release stating that libraries have seen “impressive increases” in circulation as e-books and e-readers have surged in popularity. Garden Island.

The friendly Hawaiian monk seal known as KP2, later named Ho`ailona, that frequented Molokai waters and made many friends is turning three years old this May. Molokai Dispatch.

Obama Hawaii birth certificate released, human trafficking bill advances, Ed Board gets to work, pilot medical marijuana bill advances, Hawaii County going green, more island news

Obama Hawaii Birth Certificate

The White House released the long form of President Barack Obama’s birth certificate Wednesday in response to questions about whether he was really born in the U.S. Associated Press.

He’s No ‘Birther’ but Hawaii Senator Tackles Issues Surrounding Obama’s Birth Certificate. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii lawmakers are killing a proposal that would have allowed residents to pay off upfront costs of solar panels and other energy-saving appliances through their power bills. Associated Press.

Hawaii may well be on its way to finally putting a human trafficking statute on the books. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers say they're close to reaching a compromise on implementing a law that lengthens the school day. Star-Advertiser.

The new appointed Board of Education held its first public meeting on Tuesday. KHON2.

After taking a moment to recognize their elected predecessors, the appointed Board of Education tackled its first meeting yesterday, approving new bylaws and committees while pledging to find and fix problems in Hawaii’s public education system. Star-Advertiser.

Public hospital nurses in Hawaii said they rejected a proposal for 5 percent pay cuts because they are already woefully underpaid compared to the private sector. KITV4.

The attorney general wants you to do a little spring cleaning in your medicine cabinet. Hawaii News Now.

A two-year pilot program to establish a medical marijuana distribution center aims to treat patients and crack down on abuses that have led to more than 500 people under age 21 receiving marijuana prescriptions in Hawaii County alone, a state senator said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County officials are hoping to lead by example by establishing a baseline for carbon emissions and fossil fuel use, then working to reduce both figures, the county's Green Team coordinator says. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Small Business Administration Tuesday opened a temporary SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center on Oahu to assist residents and businesses affected by the March 11 tsunami. Pacific Business News

Fuel price increases are hitting home for the county Department of Water Supply, which on Tuesday recommended a 9 percent hike to the power cost surcharge the utility charges on top of a previously planned 6.8 percent general water rate increase. West Hawaii Today.

Merrie Monarch Festival Schedule Of Events. Tribune-Herald.

A wonderful gift arrived at Kilohana School last month – a computer for every fourth through sixth grade student to use in the classroom. Molokai Dispatch.

Ground will be broken at 10 a.m. today for a Courtyard by Marriott hotel near Kahului Airport. Maui News.

Kathy Miyake of Central Pacific Bank was installed to a two-year term as president of the Kaua‘i United Way before more than 100 people who attended the 68th Annual Meeting and Mahalo Celebration recently at Duke’s Canoe Club at Kalapaki Beach. Garden Island.

Hawaii proposed online tax could hurt tech business, Maui showing signs of recovery, Hawaii County property rolls lower, governor signs bills, Merrie Monarch begins, more news

Hawaii hula (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The 48th Merrie Monarch Festival kicked off in grand fashion Sunday. Tribune-Herald.

NOAA crews have returned from a trip to the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands to survey damage from last month's tsunami. KHON2.

Hawaii lawmakers are looking for creative ways to tax online shopping, either by requiring Internet sellers to hand over customer information to the government, or by enrolling in a multistate program in which websites voluntarily collect taxes. Associated Press.

Governor Abercrombie signed eight more bills that were passed out of the 2011 legislature into law on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Six of seven bargaining units of the state's largest public-sector labor union yesterday ratified a new two-year contract that will mean a 5 percent pay cut, an increase in their health care premium payments and an increase in time off. Star-Advertiser.

The state Senate Education Committee rejected two of Gov. Neil Abercrombie's nominees for the University of Hawaii Board of Regents yesterday, making it unlikely that the full Senate will confirm them. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Monday announced a plan to provide more help to the homeless in Hawaii. KITV4.

With Maui County's economy showing signs of recovery, the administration of Mayor Alan Arakawa wants to provide more money to nonprofit agencies because they "provide a service to the community, often its neediest," said Sandy Baz, the administration's budget director. Maui News.

Hawaii County real property valuations came in about 4 percent less than last year, good news for County Council members fearing losses as high as 10 percent. West Hawaii Today.

A Civil Beat investigation of public financial disclosures shows the real estate values listed by 14 Hawaii lawmakers differed from public assessments. Civil Beat.

City & County of Honolulu Details Rail Bond Financing. Hawaii Reporter.

If you were waiting for crunch time to see how all the powerful talk at the Hawaii State Legislature would translate into the actual definition of the people’s business in 2011, and the balanced budget to pay for it, you’re in luck. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii County will honor permits already issued for DW Aina Lea's the Villages at Aina Lea, Planning Director Bobby Jean Leithead-Todd said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Northwynd Resort Properties Ltd., the owner of Makaha Resort & Golf Club, has sold the resort’s 18-hole golf course to Hawaiian Golf Properties LLC. Pacific Business News

The county Redistricting Commission had barely gotten itself organized Monday before some members started questioning a new county code setting strict rules for its operation. West Hawaii Today.

Residents of the Garden Island celebrated Earth Day this past Friday by working on projects, such as cleaning up beaches and planting trees around the island. Garden Island.

Researchers on a recent trip to the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands helped rescue a Hawaiian monk seal found tangled in marine debris. Associated Press.

On one of the holiest days of the year for Christians, Hilo's faithful flocked to see a "corpse" -- flower that is. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Supreme Court takes up native squatting rights, Real ID real expensive for counties, Maui group sues over Main Street name, budget struggles continue, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki homeless (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie and his point man on homeless issues are scheduled to announce a new initiative to help people without shelter. Associated Press.

It's decision time at the Hawaii Capitol, where lawmakers enter their final days scrounging for money to keep the state running with a full slate of proposed tax increases and spending cuts.  Associated Press.

The deadline is looming at the State Capitol, House and Senate conference committees must agree on how to close a $1.3 billion budget gap. KHON2.

University of Hawaii students are bracing for another tuition hike as state lawmakers struggle to close a major budget shortfall. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Legislature's endgame is a mystery even to those who work in the state Capitol. Civil Beat.

An increase in Hawaii's general excise tax is dead for now, but Rep. George Fontaine worries that it could make a comeback. Associated Press.

The Department of Taxation reported that tax collections in Hawaii were coming in below expectations, down by 5.5 percent through the first nine months of this fiscal year. KITV4.

The Hawaii Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case in which a Native Hawaiian argues he has a constitutional right to take up residence as a caretaker of a remote state park on Kauai. Civil Beat.

An unfunded federal mandate that the state passed down to the four counties will likely increase expenses for Kaua‘i in the near future, officials said last week. Garden Island.

Lost in the renewed scrutiny into President Barack Obama's birth records is the fact that anyone can walk into a Hawaii vital records office, wait in line behind couples getting marriage licenses and open a baby-blue government binder containing basic information about his birth. Associated Press.

The Wailuku Main Street Association is suing the National Trust for Historic Preservation over its right to use the Main Street name. Maui News.

The State Land Use Commission has denied Tropic Land LLC’s petition to allow a light industrial park’s construction on Lualualei valley farmland. Hawaii Independent.

Relocation of utility lines is expected to begin today as the city moves forward with work on its $5.3 billion rail transit system. Star-Advertiser.

The odor of rotting flesh emanating from a single "corpse flower" drew hundreds of new visitors yesterday to Hilo's Pana­‘ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens on a typically quiet Easter Sunday. Star-Advertiser.

Mitsubishi has chosen Hawaii to be the first state in the nation to get the company's new electric car. KHON2.

Continental Airlines has begun hiring airport workers as it prepares to launch its direct mainland-to-Hilo service this summer. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii state health officials have sent samples of Big Island groundwater for testing after the release of radiation from Japanese nuclear power plants last month. Associated Press.

The Queen Liliuokalani Trust is getting quite a tax break on a $9.9 million commercial parcel it owns at a prime Kona crossroads. West Hawaii Today.

“Ua Mau Ke Ea O Ka Aina I Ka Pono – The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness.” This, the state motto of Hawaii, is one of the few if not only state mottos that alludes to man’s integral relationship to the natural world. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii tourism brightens, reapportionment commission already at odds, state looks to car rental fees, fishponds opened by tsunami, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hapuna Beach (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Legislature has adopted a resolution urging the governor not to transfer Hapuna Beach State Park to Hawaii County. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii hotels were three-fourths full during the week ending April 16, and most island’s average room rates were higher compared to the same week in 2010, according to data from Smith Travel Research and Hospitality Advisors. Pacific Business News

Hunting for a ready source of cash to help balance the budget, state lawmakers might divert some of the daily surcharges that tourists and others pay on rental cars. Star-Advertiser.

With just a few weeks left before the legislature adjourns, there's a battle brewing between state lawmakers and the teacher's union.Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Supreme Court is stepping in to pick a leader of the group charged with redrawing election district lines after it failed to agree on a chairperson itself. Associated Press.

Voting districts across the state will be changed within the year. It's a process that takes place by law every ten years by law. KHON2.

With one Constitutional deadline already missed and another bearing down on them, the state's Reapportionment Commission is asking for more time. Civil Beat.

The state Supreme Court began soliciting for nominees yesterday to lead the Hawaii Reapportionment Commission after the eight sitting members announced they have been unable to reach consensus on a ninth member to serve as chairman. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is looking at ways to close a projected 100 million dollar budget gap. Hawaii Public Radio.

Visitor industry leaders appealed to Maui County Council members on Wednesday not to raise their property tax rates. Maui News.

The state Land Use Commission on Thursday affirmed its decision to revert land owned by Bridge Aina Lea and DW Aina Lea to agriculture. West Hawaii Today.

Don Horner doesn't sit on the board of every nonprofit and key organization in the state. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuits describing “deplorable and hazardous” living conditions at the state-owned Mayor Wright Homes project were filed in state and federal court today, alleging that residents, including severely disabled individuals, have endured years of rat, roach and bedbug infestations, leaky and broken pipes, and “an almost total lack of hot water.” Hawaii Reporter.

"The state is the largest landlord in this state. It's also by far the largest slum lord in the state." Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle on Thursday appointed Robert Godbey as the new corporation counsel for the city. KITV4.

Less than a week after the Kaua‘i Planning Commission granted permits to allow Phase II of the Anaina Hou Project in Kilauea to go forward, the Executive Committee of Kaua‘i’s Sierra Club expressed its concerns in writing. Garden Island.

Kohala kupuna and state biologists are hoping a breach created by the March 11 tsunami at the Kuualii fish pond may turn into a permanent ocean opening. West Hawaii Today.

Donations are needed at Keawanui Fishpond to help restore the walls, after the March 11 tsunami. Molokai Dispatch.

Data released Wednesday morning by the Environmental Protection Agency reveal that radiation levels found in Big Isle milk have dropped by more than half. Tribune-Herald.

Community colleges in Hawaii expect to slash their energy use by nearly one-quarter and save a combined $58 million over the next 20 years due to conservation measures they are adopting. Associated Press.

EEOC farmworker lawsuit hits six Hawaii farms, Hawaii County passes $56M bond issue, Gov. Abercrombie, Maui mayor calling for tax hikes, community college chancellor candidates woo Big Island, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu gay rights rally (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Gender equity bill on governor's desk a bookend to civil unions bill earlier in session. Civil Beat.

Federal authorities have filed a civil lawsuit accusing six Hawaii farms of "unlawful employment practices" in association with federally indicted farm labor contractor Global Horizons Manpower Inc. Star-Advertiser.

A federal agency calls it the largest human trafficking lawsuit ever against the agriculture industry. KHON2.

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Files Lawsuit in Thai Human Trafficking Case, but Defendants, Attorneys Question Timing, Motives Hawaii Reporter.

Captain Cook Coffee Co. and MacFarms of Hawaii were two of six Hawaii farms named in a human trafficking lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission announced Wednesday that it has filed its largest agricultural human trafficking lawsuit against labor contractor Global Horizons and eight farms, including Kaua‘i Coffee Company. Garden Island.

A federal agency has sued a California-based labor contractor and farms in Washington and Hawaii alleging discrimination against more than 200 Thai workers in what it has called its largest human trafficking case in agriculture to date. Associated Press.

House and Senate negotiators meeting in conference committees are agreeing on a few bills that will now get final floor votes. Garden Island.

With the budget year mostly over, Hawaii state tax revenue is up less than inflation, sharpening the state budget crisis. Hawaii News Now.

Golden Week in Hawaii will lose some of its shine this year. Hawaii News Now.

Verbatim: Abercrombie email says moving forward means raising taxes. Hawaii Independent.

Teachers bombarded state Sen. Jill Tokuda's office with hundreds of calls and more than 1,200 emails yesterday, concerned that a law aimed at lengthening public school days would require them to work longer hours without more pay. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii and various Hawaii public schools plan to donate textbooks and bookshelves to public libraries in Micronesia suffering from budget cuts. Associated Press.

The Honolulu City Council held a marathon session day over a combination of spending cuts and hikes in taxes and fees. KHON2.

Mayor Alan Arakawa is calling for a smaller increase in property tax rates than he originally proposed. Maui News.

County Clerk Peter Nakamura’s mayoral re-appointment and subsequent Kaua‘i County Council confirmation in December stirred controversy after two council members questioned a pay raise that pushed his salary slightly past the mayor’s. Garden Island.

Comments among County Council members got a bit heated Wednesday morning, but by lunchtime, the council gave the final approval to a $56 million bond. West Hawaii Today.

The cost to build Honolulu's rail transit system has decreased to $5.3 billion from $5.5 billion, according to the latest draft of the city's financial plan, released yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Complaints that Maui County Council Member Mike White acted improperly when he called for more funding for the Maui Visitors Bureau have been dismissed by the county Board of Ethics. Maui News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie Wednesday presented Hawaii Green Business Office and Government awards to eight institutions. Pacific Business News

“I felt like I was cleaning the rubbish off the reef,” said Dicky Dowling, who speared 46 roi for first place honors in last weekend’s Molokai Roi Tournament. Molokai Dispatch.

Working together will help move Hawaii Community College into the future, four finalists seeking the college's chancellor position emphasized during a forum held Wednesday in Kealakekua. West Hawaii Today.

East Hawaii residents got their first chance Tuesday to interact with the final four candidates vying for the chancellorship of Hawaii Community College. Tribune-Herald.

For many of the 52,000 local Bank of America mortgage holders who have lost–or could lose–their houses due to the bank’s nationwide frenzy of mortgage foreclosures, the possibility of being houseless is terrifying. Honolulu Weekly.

University of Hawaii officials, UH medical students and contractors gathered Wednesday to bless the university's Cancer Center in Kakaako at the medical school. KITV4.

Hawai’i got its first news that radioisotopes from the Japanese nuclear crisis had appeared in local food on April 10, when the Environmental Protection Agency posted results of testing on milk from a Big Island dairy. Big Island Weekly.

Feds announce human trafficking sweep, gas hits record high, bedbugs invade Waikiki restaurant, Maui nurses protest pay, Sanjay Gupta bringing Fit Nation to Kona, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Hale (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Deep funding cuts proposed for the city Office of Economic Development and the Mayor's Office on Culture and the Arts could be scaled back, a key lawmaker says, depending on the support each agency receives when the City Council meets today to weigh budget plans. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission will announce the filing of a major human trafficking lawsuit today, involving hundreds of Thai workers throughout California, Washington and Hawai‘i. Garden Island.

Members of the House Finance and Senate Ways and Means committees kicked off a conference committee Tuesday night to start negotiating a final budget draft for the coming two fiscal years.Civil Beat.

Hawaii Republicans are holding a "Balanced Budget Summit" intended to show the public that tax increases aren't needed to address the state's shortfall. Associated Press.

Gas prices hit a new record high in Hawaii today and oil industry analysts say prices are likely to continue rising. Star-Advertiser.

As rising gasoline prices drive up the cost of transportation in Hawaii, the Hawaii State Legislature is poised to pass laws that sharply increase the cost of owning a car or truck. Hawaii Reporter.

A company that builds electric vehicle charging stations announced Tuesday the first steps toward building a network of chargers across Hawaii. KITV4.

O’ahu students rallied at the Capitol to show their support of Clean Energy legislation. Hawaii Public Radio.

A Waikiki restaurant is currently receiving treatment for bed bugs. KHON2.

A 1,200-acre lowland forest preserve in Ka'u is blossoming with native species once thought to have vanished. West Hawaii Today.

An effort by Kohala Councilman Pete Hoffmann to increase the list of eligible public land purchase properties faltered in the council's Finance Committee Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Work continues at the 1,739-acre Kapulena Agricultural Park in Hamakua, as inmates build fences for initial use as pasture land. Tribune-Herald.

Debris swept into the sea after the Great East Japan Earthquake likely will reach the shores of the Hawaiian Islands in about a year and the West Coast of North America in 2014, according to a Japan-U.S. joint research organization. Hawaii Independent.

CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta bringing Fit Nation to Big Island of Hawaii. Big Island Video News.

The federal government is awarding researchers $25 million to study how to prevent obesity among native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. Associated Press.

A newly released study by the State Land and Natural Resources Department and the University of Hawaii’s Sea Grant program is proposing ways to protect Kailua Beach from erosion, and the expected rise in the ocean levels. KITV4.

The state and coastal geologists have prepared a plan to protect sand dunes on Oahu's Kailua Beach from erosion that scientists predict will occur as global warming causes sea levels to rise. Associated Press.

It's been named one of the prettiest beaches in the world but some say the parking at Lanikai Beach in Kailua is getting downright ugly. KHON2.

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation 2011 Hawaii Host Committee Tuesday issued a request for proposals for a company to sell Hawaii tours and activities to APEC attendees in November. Pacific Business News

Federal authorities investigating a deadly fireworks explosion on Oahu have started to slowly remove explosives that remain in the underground bunker where five workers were killed. Associated Press.

More than 100 nurses from Maui Memorial Medical Center rallied Monday and plan to gather again Thursday to protest terms of a new contract with the state. Maui News.

University of Hawaii at Hilo administrators anticipate canceling a number of classes next academic year in an effort to cut expenses. Tribune-Herald.

Federal trial for marijuana minister Roger Christie and 13 others has been delayed again. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii officials reassure on radiation scare, bills labeling coffee, barring gender ID bias go to governor, Big Island evicting Native Hawaiians, Maui police want disoriented database, more Hawaii news

Hawaiian Abel Lui (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii County and a Kawa Bay property owner have gone to court to evict a Native Hawaiian group claiming ownership of property the county is buying for preservation. West Hawaii Today.

State health officials are testing large rainwater catchment systems this week on the Big Island, Maui and Kauai for radiation from Japan's nuclear release, but re-emphasized that radiation in milk, rainwater and likely in locally grown produce remains minute. Star-Advertiser.

State health officials said Monday trace amounts of radiation from Japan detected in milk and rain water in Hawaii do not pose a threat to public health. KITV4.

Officials with the state Health Department told members of the Senate Health Committee Monday that radiation from the nuclear disaster in Japan has been found in Hawaii's rain water and milk but the levels are so miniscule the contamination poses no threat to the public. KHON2.

There have been no public health threats generated so far in Hawaii by ongoing nuclear radiation leaks in Japan, officials of the state Health Department and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration told a Senate committee today. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii health officials say tiny amounts of radiation detected in milk and rainwater don't pose a public health risk. Associated Press.

The next two years of federal Medicaid cuts will chop at least $150 million out of health care, affecting one out of every five Hawaii residents, and state legislators are looking for an additional $30 million in savings, the head of the state Department of Human Services told groups attending simultaneous town hall meetings last night. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would explicitly bar discrimination on the basis of gender identiy or expression in employment in Hawaii now awaits Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s signature. Hawaii Independent.

A bill awaiting Gov. Neil Abercrombie's signature is intended to prevent mislabeling of Kona coffee blends. But Big Island coffee farmers opposed to the bill say it will actually make the problem worse. Civil Beat.

Waikiki Beach widening project on hold. Hawaii News Now.

Coqui frog hunting? There's an app for that. West Hawaii Today.

Police seek database for disoriented people. Maui News.

City officials on Monday introduced the six appointees for the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation. KITV4.

First Hawaiian Bank CEO and Chairman Don Horner has topped a number of important short-lists lately. Less than a week after being sworn in as chairman of the new appointed state Board of Education, Horner on Monday was named one of 10 members on the board of a new Honolulu mass transit agency. Civil Beat.

Koke‘e State Park is full of wonder. Where else can you witness rare Hawaiian birds in their native environment? Garden Island.

Hawaii’s first electric vehicle charging network will be unveiled Tuesday, a project of Better Place. Pacific Business News

Molokai Occupational Center’s new management is putting a rocky past aside and working toward building a better future and making stronger ties with the community it serves. Molokai Dispatch.

A Probate Court-appointed screening committee is looking for candidates for a new Kamehameha Schools trustee. Associated Press.