Rats! All over Waikiki. GMO state override bill fails, tour company death lawsuit settled, Hawaiian Home Lands wants pass from public records laws, greenhouse gas, toxic emissions regulations mulled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki (c) 2014 All Hawaii News

Waikiki's rodents in residence. Budget cuts have let rats proliferate in the tourist mecca, much to residents' dismay. Star-Advertiser.

The Department of Education will again review Pono Choices after complaints from a state House lawmaker and several parents that the sex education curriculum is medically inaccurate and not age-appropriate for middle-schoolers. The department informed the state Board of Education on Tuesday that it is in the final stages of putting together a working group of educators, medical and public health professionals, parents and community leaders to review the curriculum. Star-Advertiser.

A bid to override county regulations on genetically modified crops failed to make it past a crucial Senate committee Tuesday. Hawaii Sen. Clarence Nishihara, who chairs the Senate Agriculture Committee, originally introduced the bill amending the state's Right to Farm Act through Senate Bill 3058 last month. That bill would bar counties from enacting laws that limit farmers’ use of certain biotechnology. Both the Big Island and Kauai approved laws last year that, among other things, imposed regulations on genetically modified crops. Civil Beat.

Right-to-farm legislation is likely dead for this session after the chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee on Tuesday failed to get enough votes for a procedural move to keep the idea afloat. Sen. Clarence Nishihara, the committee's chairman, tried to insert right-to-farm language into a bill that was carried over from last session, a tactical move intended to get a public hearing. But the committee was split 3-3, so the move failed. Star-Advertiser.

With little or no warning, a second bill aimed at stripping the ability of counties to restrict farming beyond state and federal law popped up in the Hawaii Senate this week. Same language. Different approach. Both pushed forward by Sen. Clarence Nishihara. But the new measure, which some quickly called political maneuvering, died just as quickly as it was introduced. Garden Island.

The Senate committee on agriculture held a public decision-making session on whether to “insert substantive provisions” into short-form bill SB110 earlier today. The vote ended in a tie, meaning the measure died in committee. By amending the Hawaii’s Right to Farm Act to “ensure that counties cannot enact laws, ordinances, or resolutions that limit the rights of farmers and ranchers to engage in modern farming and ranching practices,” SB110 would have prevented any county legislation that would prevent biotech companies from creating GMO seeds and growing plants from them from being passed. Hawaii Independent.

A bill that would allow Hawaii lawmakers and citizens to better scrutinize police officer misconduct in annual reports to the Legislature cleared its first hurdle Tuesday. But there were also glimpses of possible future barriers to the measure, particularly from the state’s powerful police union. The Senate Public Safety Committee passed Senate Bill 2591 late Tuesday afternoon 3-1, with Republican Sen. Sam Slom the only dissenting voice. Civil Beat.

Nearly two months ago, new rules that would curb the state's greenhouse gas emissions landed on Gov. Neil Abercrombie's desk for his signature. The rules are still waiting on the Democratic governor. And so are environmentalists, who worry that Abercrombie's slowness to pick up his pen might be the result of pressure from influential companies that would be affected by the legislation. They're also concerned about two bills introduced last month by state lawmakers that could, they argue, help gut Hawaii’s greenhouse gas law. Civil Beat.

A total of 37 facilities in Hawaiʻi reported a combined 2.7 million pounds of toxic chemical releases during 2012, according to new information provided by the US Environmental Protection Agency. Maui Now.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is asking the Legislature to create a special exemption to the state's open-records law, making all government documents related to the agency's homestead lessees and applicants confidential if the records include personal information. Star-Advertiser.

A bill to shield most documents and correspondence relating to residential leases issued by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands from public disclosure will get a second look from the Senate Committee on Hawaiian Affairs on Wednesday. Senate Bill 2837, which would prevent public disclosure of most lease records except for the actual lease documents, was proposed by DHHL and is included in Gov. Neil Abercrombie's legislative package. Civil Beat.

Hawaii may be getting ready to spend half a million dollars to remind its aging population: start saving now for long-term care. Lawmakers on Tuesday considered SB2346, a $7.1 million Senate bill for elder care and education. If passed, it will put $4.2 million toward the state’s kupuna care program and $1.9 million toward the disability resource center. It will also pay for a $500,000 public education campaign to encourage Hawaii residents to plan for their long-term care. Associated Press.

State Rep. Mark Takai's campaign distributed an election video last week. He's running in a crowded field for the 1st Congressional District seat being vacated by Rep. Colleen Hanabusa. Civil Beat.

At least 10 U.S. states, including Hawaii, are considering bills to legalize or expand Internet gambling this year, according to a group that tracks gambling-related legislation worldwide. Associated Press.

CVS Caremark, the parent company of Longs Drug Stores in Hawaii, is kicking the habit of selling tobacco products at its more than 7,600 drugstores nationwide as it focuses more on providing health care. The company said today that it will phase out cigarettes, cigars and chewing tobacco by Oct. 1 in its 7,600 stores nationwide, in a move that will help grow its business that works with doctors, hospitals and others to improve customers' health. Star-Advertiser.

The state's public middle and high schools will be legally required to provide at least 990 hours of instruction beginning next school year, the first time in history Hawaii has implemented a minimum number of student learning hours for secondary schools, according to a state Department of Education report presented to lawmakers Friday. Maui News.

State roundup for February 5. Associated Press.

Oahu

About a half dozen federal employees at the historic U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building downtown blame mold there for asthma and other life-threatening health problems they have suffered for nearly three years.  While federal ICE officials denied there are serious environmental problems with the building, some employees said they have faced retribution for filing illness claims. Hawaii News Now.

It's a neighbor's nightmare, hoarders living right next door and the Honolulu City Council is looking to clean up the problem but they're finding it's a sensitive area. Hawaii News Now.

UPS once used it as storage space. Now part of a nondescript Kaka­ako warehouse is slated to be transformed into a pavilion for artistic events and a public gathering place. Star-Advertiser.

Nordstrom, which on Monday confirmed its move to the Ewa end of Ala Moana Center in Honolulu, is expected to have a Whole Foods Market below its new store, sources close to the situation told Pacific Business News.

Hawaii
Mayor Billy Kenoi has a plan to take out the trash. Kenoi told the County Council on Tuesday he will soon begin to pursue a waste-elimination project to address the Hilo landfill’s capacity problems. That could include a waste-to-energy incinerator, an idea the council rejected in 2008 under a previous administration. But Kenoi said he doesn’t intend to pursue any particular technology, an approach that appeared to receive the full support of the council members. Tribune-Herald.

With oo in hand, nine dignitaries, government officials and future homesteaders turned fresh dirt Tuesday signaling the start of construction of infrastructure that will eventually become the home for 117 Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries in Kona. West Hawaii Today.

A wrongful death lawsuit filed by the parents of a New York teenager swept out to sea during a Kealakekua Bay hiking and kayaking tour has been settled. Michael Madoff, the father of 15-year-old Tyler Madoff, said Tuesday he hopes tours will be run more carefully in the future. Associated Press.

Maui

Kaupo, Kahikinui, Kapalua and the Paia-Haiku areas have been identified by an "internationally recognized" energy resource consultant to be potential wind farm sites on Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

The Maui-based attorney who filed a protest against Kauai County’s search for pro-bono legal services to defend Ordinance 960 is taking his case to a state agency after a county official rejected his complaint. That protest, filed by Lance D. Collins of Wailuku last week, claimed legal cost requirements outlined in a solicitation to defend the county’s law on genetically modified organisms and pesticides use were unethical and violated state law. Garden Island.

Hawaii boosts net worth, state Legislature tries to preempt county GMO laws, UH faculty complaint delays smoking ban, push for cool schools, design errors delay new UH Hilo building opening, state's first private Post Office to open on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii cattle (c) 2014 All Hawaii News

Introduced by Sen. Clarence Nishihara, the Agriculture Committee chairman, and backed by several powerful senators, SB 3058 appears to be an attempt to exert state control over counties like Kauai and Hawaii that have moved to dramatically curb the use of pesticides and GMOs. But the bill faced referral to three joint committees as well as a fourth referral — a high hurdle — and as of Monday SB 3058 did not have a hearing scheduled before Thursday's triple-referral deadline. Solution? Take the key language of SB 3058 and place it into another bill related to ag — in this case, Senate Bill 110, a short-form bill held over from last year. And give it a hearing at the last minute. Civil Beat.

The state closed the last fiscal year with a net gain in assets for the first time since 2006, another mark of the state's economic recovery. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Abercrombie Monday announced the first increase in state government's net worth in years as two top state senators – including one challenging Abercrombie's re-election – said lawmakers also deserve credit for the state's improving financial situation because they rejected Abercrombie's tax hike proposals and cut his budget. Hawaii News Now.

The push to cool public school classrooms got a boost Monday as the state House Education Committee advanced a bill that would dedicate $25 million to air-condition schools next school year. The measure still faces the House Finance Committee, which will need to prioritize a long list of competing interests for state funds this year. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Bob McDermott, who enrolled his eight children in Hawaii’s public schools, doesn’t want his 11-year-old son exposed to a controversial taxpayer-funded sex education program. That program is taught in 12 public schools across the state, and the Hawaii Department of Education is planning to expand the curriculum to others. Hawaii Reporter.

State lawmakers have scheduled a hearing today on a bill aimed at putting pressure on Hawaiian Electric Co. to be more responsive to its customers' demanding lower electricity prices. The measure, HB 1999, would empower the Legislature to review the franchise granted by the state that allows the HECO companies to operate as a regulated monopoly on all major islands except Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

People who work but are still homeless would get help moving into rooms for rent in private homes if Hawaii lawmakers pass a bill expanding a state housing program. A bill before the state House (HB1841) could widen Housing First, a program that aims to find permanent housing for homeless people. Associated Press.

State Sen. Suzanne Chun Oakland wants to boost Hawaii’s affordable housing stock by convincing the Legislature to spend hundreds of millions of dollars to subsidize rentals for low-income Hawaii residents. Sen. David Ige, who leads the Senate’s budget committee, says there’s not a chance that her bill will receive that level of funding. But Chun Oakland is still pushing the ambitious proposal, reflecting her efforts over two decades to make housing for the poor into a legislative priority. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Health Connector launched a new statewide enrollment drive Monday in preparation for the March 31 deadline to sign up for insurance under the Affordable Care Act. The state-based online insurance marketplace has created new advertisements and online tools and will host a number of events to encourage uninsured residents to sign up for coverage through the Connector's community outreach partners known as Kokua. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A smoking ban at the University of Hawaii Manoa that was supposed to start in February has been delayed because of a complaint filed by the University of Hawaii Professional Assembly. KITV4.

Chancellor Tom Apple wanted the campus-wide smoking ban to begin Jan. 1, but the faculty’s union filed a complaint about it late last year. KHON2.

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia told law students at the University of Hawaii on Monday that the nation’s highest court was wrong to uphold the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War II, but he wouldn’t be surprised if the court issued a similar ruling during a future conflict. Associated Press.

Loathed by oh-so-many liberals, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia waded into the deep-blue Aloha State Monday for a talk with law students at the University of Hawaii. The surprise for much of the audience wasn't that the supremely self-confident Scalia stated his constitutional judicial philosophy with authority; it was his edgy wit. Civil Beat.

Affordable housing slated for Hawaii Kai site. Hawaii News Now.

Less than six years after opening its store at Ala Moana Center, Nordstrom Inc. announced Monday it is moving to another location in the mall. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The stalled Hu Honua Bioenergy project in Pepeekeo ran into more trouble, as three creditors say they’re owed delinquent unpaid bills, including one for more than $35 million. Three applications for mechanic’s and materialman’s liens were filed last month in Hilo Circuit Court. The largest, filed Jan. 30 by the project’s main contractor, Hawaiian Dredging Construction Co., claims Hu Honua owes $35,166,862.50. Another, claiming an unpaid bill of $1,303,976.45, was filed Jan. 29 by American Electric Co. The third, filed Jan. 16 by General Supply and Services, dba Gexpro, seeks payment of $53,286. Tribune-Herald.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo’s new Student Services Building has appeared to be complete for months now, but it has yet to open for business. Administrators and staff hoped to move into the building in the fall of 2013, after primary construction was completed during the summer. But in an email sent Friday in response to questions, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Luoluo Hong reported the university now expects full occupancy not to occur until late this summer. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The US Postal Service will open its first Village Post Office in the state this week at Hanzawa’s Variety Store in Haʻikū on the island of Maui. Village Post Offices are owned and operated by third party businesses and “complement the Postal Service’s own network” of service locations. Maui Now.

Maui professor Kaleikoa Ka‘eo delivered this alternative to the Governor's State of the State address at the "People Not Profits" rally. Hawaii Independent.

Servco Automotive has purchased Maui’s Island Subaru dealership in Kahului from Kitagawa Motors, the company said Monday. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Smart Growth America announced that the County of Kauai was selected to receive free smart growth technical assistance through a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program. The county is one of 18 communities out of 100 applicants and the only Hawaii community that will receive a one- or two-day training session with an expert from Smart Growth America. Garden Island.

Support strong for Kokee council. Bill to end advisory group runs into opposition. Garden Island.

Honolulu rail gets on track, Schatz, Abercrombie lead in money races, candidate filing begins, Hawaii income distributed more evenly, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu rail project, HART courtesy photo

Until recently, Oahu's rail transit project was little more than a big idea — a concept debated for years on Internet comment boards, via the voting booth and in the courtroom. But in 2014, construction work is making rail a reality. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers this week will consider a bill that could make lying to police illegal, and another that would give adopted children full access to their birth records once they turn 18. The highlights of the third full week of the legislative session, however, will focus on Hawaii’s position as a place susceptible to the ravages of heat, aging and climate change. Associated Press.

Unlike about half of the states, the 50th does not allow for initiative, referendum and recall, ways in which citizens can directly enact major changes in governance. We also don't place term limits on legislators, and we haven't had a constitutional convention in 36 years — the last time Hawaii dramatically overhauled its government. Civil Beat.

The state Senate launched a statewide videoconferencing testimony program last week that's designed to make it easy for residents to testify at a legislative hearing -- even from the comfort of home. But when the program debuted Monday at an Education Committee meeting, no one showed up on the video screen. Star-Advertiser.

Court hearings involving children whose parents are accused of neglect or abuse would be open to the public under a bill headed for a hearing Tuesday. Family Court cases in Hawaii, as in most states, are closed to protect the confidentiality of the children involved and to avoid stigmatizing them. But a growing number of states have opened them to the public while giving individual judges discretion to close hearings if it would be in the best interest of the child and the community.Star-Advertiser.

Proposed legislation would amend state requirements to allow undocumented residents to qualify for a driver’s license in the interest of public safety, identification and insurance coverage. Garden Island.

Ready or not, the 2014 election season officially kicks off Monday. Candidates can start filing to run for office. Paperwork will be available from the state elections office and through the county clerks. Candidates have until 4:30 p.m. on June 3, 2014 to get their paperwork done before the Aug. 9, 2014 Primary Election. KHON2.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie and state Sen. David Ige take pride in Hawaii's economic turnaround, but they have competing storylines about exactly how state government was able to climb back into the black. Abercrombie has framed his re-election campaign on a recovery marked by an $844 million budget surplus, replenished emergency reserves, and the political will to confront the long-neglected unfunded liabilities in the public-worker health care and retirement funds. Ige, the chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee who is challenging Abercrombie in the Democratic primary, insists that it was the state Legislature that had the prescription to close the projected deficit Abercrombie faced when he took office in 2010. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie raised 10 times as much money as his Democratic primary challenger David Ige in the six months since the state senator announced his candidacy. From July 1 through Dec. 31, the governor reported $528,000 in campaign contributions, compared with just $56,226 raised by Ige, who unexpectedly announced he was joining the race on July 9. Civil Beat.

In the most heated Senate Democratic primary of 2014, Sen. Brian Schatz (D) has established himself as the financial pace-setter, and Rep. Colleen Hanabusa is doing little to show she'll be able to close the gap. She raised $455,000 to Schatz's $705,000. Over the course of the entire cycle, Schatz has raised twice as much as Hanabusa. The Fix.

Hawaii Senate President Donna Mercado Kim made a splash in the 1st Congressional District's Democratic primary race, outpacing her opponents in campaign fundraising during the period from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, according to federal filings released over the weekend. Six candidates, so far, are vying for the chance to represent the party and try to retain the congressional seat that Colleen Hanabusa is vacating in her quest to oust Brian Schatz from the U.S. Senate. The winner of the Aug. 9 primary will face the eventual Republican candidate in the Nov. 4 general election. Kim hauled in nearly three times as much as anyone else in the CD1 race during the last quarter of 2013, banking $330,133. Civil Beat.

It was a little surprising to find U.S. Census Bureau data showing that income is distributed more evenly across the state than it is across the country as a whole. In other words, "you have less income inequality in Hawaii than you have nationally," Census survey statistician Kirby Posey told Civil Beat.

A long-awaited version of the farm bill is heading for the Senate this week. Hawaii Public Radio reports on the 5 year, $500 billion package, and how it will be felt here in Hawaii.

Dug-up bones and unidentified remains of Native Hawaiians may be reburied on an uninhabited island if a proposed law passes. Hawaii’s Senate is considering a bill that would designate the island of Kahoolawe as the resting place for unknown or “inadvertently discovered” Hawaiian bones when those remains can’t be reburied nearby. Associated Press.

Oahu

Attorney Linda Chu Takayama has been appointed to lead the city Office of Economic Development. She will be joined by Peter Tomo­zawa, who was appointed as executive director of Business Development; and Minnie Ko, executive director of international affairs. Star-Advertiser.

Two forested ridges in Aiea could become part of the growing zip line industry in Hawaii under a plan by a real estate development company for a site once eyed for residential development. An affiliate of Towne Development of Hawaii Inc. has filed a draft environmental assessment with the state laying out plans for a zip line attraction in Waimalu above the existing Royal Summit neighborhood. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii
The 2014 election season kicks off today with the beginning of the candidate filing period, which runs through June 3. Tribune-Herald.

This year, Hawaii Island voters will have their work cut out for them as they will be called upon to weigh in on a number of federal, state and county posts. Tribune-Herald.

Businesses on Hawaii's Big Island, education and state officials are working with the officials from the $1.3 billion Thirty Meter Telescope project to create a "workforce pipeline program" to create a path for isle residents and students seeking careers in technology and other jobs related to the planned observatory atop Mauna Kea. Pacific Business News.

Reducing the coffee berry borer population at the get-go and keeping the pesky bug at bay with a once-a-month spray of Beauveria fungus appears to give the best bang for the buck, a scientist told coffee farmers at an expo Friday in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Organic farmers could see some more green, and not just in their fields. Puna makai Councilman Greggor Ilagan introduced a bill that would give certified organic farms a break on their property taxes. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Campaign spending reports show that some politicians are faring better than others as the 2014 election season officially gets underway this week. Maui News.

A bill requiring the state Department of Education to name the planned Kīhei High School in honor of the late US Representative Patsy Takemoto Mink will surface for a hearing before the Senate Committee on Education this Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2014. Maui Now.

Kauai

Pacific Missile Range Facility members and equipment participated in the integrated maritime exercise Koa Kai 14-1, Jan. 24-31. PMRF’s airfield was used as a forward staging base for the U.S. Army’s 25th Cavalry Artillery Brigade and Marine Corps units conducting helicopter operations. In addition, portions of the water range were used by Navy surface ships, and PMRF’s Seaborne Powered Target boats played a key role in the weeklong training. Garden Island.

Hawaii tourism peaks, lobbyists hard to track, lawmakers tackle minimum wage, invasive pests, police oversight, trail liability, more top political and government news from the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii pool party (c) 2014 All Hawaii News

Hawaii's visitor industry set records for visitor spending and arrivals in 2013 despite a leveling off of growth in the second half of the year. Nearly 8.24 million travelers came to Hawaii in 2013, surpassing the 2012 record of nearly 8.03 million visitors by 2.6 percent, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Visitor expenditures rose to $14.5 billion, a 2 percent gain over 2012. When adjusted for inflation, total visitor expenditures in 2013 still set a record but rose by only 0.3 percent. Star-Advertiser.

It's been months since same-sex marriage became legal in Hawaii, but taxpayers still don't know how much money supporters or opponents spent to influence the decision. Lobbyists are supposed disclose how much money they're spending to influence lawmakers, but critics say the state disclosure system is among the weakest in the nation and prevents a timely and complete tally. Associated Press.

Is it fair that minimum-wage workers in the most expensive state in the nation earn only $7.25 an hour? To put it in perspective, an employee who works 40 hours per week, earns just $290 — before the tax bite. Monthly, that averages out to a little more than $1,200 — again, before taxes. So it isn't entirely surprising that the minimum wage issue is among the big questions facing Hawaii legislators this year. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers want to swat down a pair of invasive pests: the coffee berry borer and the little fire ant. Despite their quaint names, the insects pose considerable threats to Hawaii's fragile environment. House lawmakers are proposing to spend $3 million next year to control coffee berry borers, up from $250,000 last year. Lawmakers also want to put more than $306,000 into a pilot project to study the threat and possible eradication of little fire ants. Associated Press.

Massage therapists, boxing promoters, doctors and lawyers all have to be licensed to work in Hawaii. So too do private detectives and security guards. But Hawaii’s police officers, whether they’re patrolling the streets of Waikiki or tracking down poachers on the Big Island, do not. Civil Beat.

SB 1007 would expand current law to further protect the state from liability in the case of accidents or injuries on public lands or on “voluntary trails” created by hikers and climbers. Largely ignored by the media, this bill certainly was on the radar of Hawaii's hiking and rock climbing communities. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii's presidential selection committee will forgo hiring an outside search firm but will move ahead with its own national search — a process that committee members say they want to complete within a year. Star-Advertiser.

Major changes, including a new name and management approach, could be on the horizon for the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, according to an internal draft management plan obtained by The Garden Island.

Oahu

A city leasing program is coming under fire — and some increased scrutiny — after a concessionaire with contracts at two major parks was recently arrested in an alleged real estate scheme. Questions about how the program screens its applicants and manages its multimillion-dollar assets began surfacing this month with the arrest of 38-year-old Sakara Blackwell, president of Optimum Marketing and Management Corp., the company that holds long-term city contracts to run the Barefoot Beach Cafe at Kapiolani Park and the concession stand at the Diamond Head end of Ala Moana Beach Park. Star-Advertiser.

Rare coral found off Hawaii, judge strikes gay marriage challenge, police misconduct kept secret, health exchange to get cheaper, GOP wants people power, Kauai passes cat license bill, 100 testify on Maui GMO bill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Rare coral, courtesy Hawaii DLNR

A state research team has discovered a coral species that's new to the main Hawaiian islands. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources said Wednesday that a team of divers along the Kona coast came across a large number of coral colonies they had never seen before. Associated Press.

DLNR coral image

A research team with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Aquatic Resources discovered off the South Kona Coast a species of coral new to the main Hawaiian Islands. Tribune-Herald.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said it removed nearly 1 million pounds of decades-old shipwreck debris from two remote national wildlife refuges in the Pacific. The agency said Wednesday the removal is the first phase of coral reef restoration work at Palmyra Atoll and Kingman Reef National Wildlife Refuges. Associated Press.

A state House committee deferred a series of bills backed by Niihau residents to sustain fishing and other marine life for future generations. The Committee on Ocean, Marine Resources and Hawaiian Affairs plans to submit a short-form bill relating to ocean resources to provide funding to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Chairwoman Rep. Faye Hanohano said the state agency needs money to study coastal resources statewide. Star-Advertiser.

Between 500 and 800 lanternfish and squid were found dead or dying in the Nawiliwili Harbor area on Monday, prompting in investigation by state and federal officials into what caused the die-off. Star-Advertiser.

A state Circuit Court judge on Wednesday sided with the state and threw out a House lawmaker's legal challenge to gay marriage. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is the only state without any form of referendum, recall and initiative on a statewide level, so House and Senate Republican leaders are asking the public to rally behind legislation they’ve jointly introduced to change that. But will they get enough backing from the public to sway the state’s majority Democratic party, which holds all but one Senate seat and seven House seats in the 76 member body? Hawaii Reporter.

The cost of running Hawaii’s health insurance marketplace is likely to fall below its original projection of $15 million annually because of low enrollment, its executive director told lawmakers Wednesday. Associated Press.

As high-profile deliberations over whether there should be publicly funded preschool resume, some Hawaii educators and parents are growing frustrated with the limited attention that policymakers are giving to imminent changes to the state’s kindergarten age requirement. The changes are expected to shake up the entire public school system and leave thousands of families without a place for their children to study. Civil Beat.

Hawaii had one of the lowest rates of home “flips” in the United States in 2013, according to figures released by RealtyTrac. A “flip” is when someone buys a home and sells it in six months or less. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

On Sept. 23, 2011, Honolulu police officer James Easley was fired after a woman accused him of raping her on the hood of his patrol car. Easley's case illustrates how difficult it is for the public to check on police misconduct and whether police officials are effectively addressing it, including removing bad cops from the street. But some lawmakers hope to change that situation. They have submitted companion bills in the House and Senate that would require more detailed disclosure of police disciplinary records, although the bills maintain an exemption in Hawaii's public records law that protects cops from having to reveal details of most disciplinary actions. All other public employees are required by law to disclose information relating to suspensions and terminations. Civil Beat.

The state Attorney General’s office is asking for $1 million from the Legislature to pay for past and ongoing lawsuits and to investigate Matson for last September’s destructive molasses spill in Honolulu Harbor. Attorney General David Louie and First Deputy Attorney General Russell Suzuki submitted testimony to House Finance Committee on Wednesday afternoon, estimating that the total cost of “extraordinary litigation” in the next year and a half could exceed $3 million. Civil Beat.

Attorneys for a Virginia boy with cerebral palsy say his family and the Honolulu military hospital where he was born reached a tentative $9 million settlement. The amount, put on the record in federal court in Honolulu on Monday, is subject to final approval by the U.S. Department of Justice, said Loretta Sheehan, one of the family’s attorneys. Associated Press.

There were more employers competing for a shrinking pool of job seekers Tuesday at the state's largest job fair. The 161 companies and government agencies that manned booths at the Job Quest job fair was up from 150 that turned out for the same event a year ago. The job fair drew 3,400 job seekers, down from 3,500 in January 2013. Star-Advertiser.

Condominium towers could sprout in Kakaako just makai of Ala Moana Boulevard if a bill sought by the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs is approved by the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

As has often been the case, there was a surge of hope when General Motors officials arrived in Honolulu in December 2010 to announce a partnership with The Gas Co. — now known as Hawaii Gas — that would "make hydrogen available to all of Oahu's one million residents by 2015." As part of the plan, as many as 25 hydrogen fueling stations would be built on Oahu to support as many as 10,000 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Development of a public shooting range at Puuanahulu has slowed while organizers work out noise concerns with some of the neighbors. West Hawaii Today.

The winch for lifting boats at Mahukona in North Kohala has been out-of-service since being damaged by high surf in December, forcing some boaters to find alternate locations from which to launch their vessels. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
Nearly 100 people testified before a Maui County Council Committee on Tuesday on a hot topic bill to regulate pesticide and genetically modified organisms. Maui News.

Maui County Council Member Riki Hokama, the current first vice president of the National Association of Counties, is in line to become the group's president in the summer, a news release from NACo said. Maui News.

Haleakala National Park is implementing a plan to cut back on the number of commercial visitors that aims to ensure preservation of the resources at the park, Maui’s most popular attraction. Associated Press.

The governor announced the release today of $500,000 in funds for land acquisition at Līpoa Point on Maui. Maui Now.

Cultural practitioners working to restore and preserve traditional Hawaiian fishponds don't simply need to wrestle heavy rocks into place in waist-deep water. First, government agencies have them navigate a bureaucratic maze of permits and regulations. Maui News.

Kauai

Cat owners on Kauai would be required to get a license for their pet under a new program passed by the Kauai County Council. The Council voted 4-2 Wednesday to pass Bill 2517 to establish a cat licensing program to help tackle the overpopulation of free-roaming cats on the island. The measure will be sent to the mayor's office for consideration. Star-Advertiser.

The Kauai County Council approved a bill that will require pet owners to license their cats and set up spaying and neutering requirements for cats allowed to roam outside. The 4-2 vote was made during the seven-member board’s Wednesday meeting. Garden Island.

A slew of House bills aimed at prohibiting outsiders from fishing and harvesting opihi around the island of Niihau died in committee Wednesday. However, the discussion will continue. Garden Island.

Monsanto reaches out; Maui ponders GMO limits; guns up, gun crimes down; House committee wants more oversight over UH repairs; Kauai may get dairy; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Monsanto courtesy chart

The GMO debate is considered one of the most controversial and confusing issues facing our state. Supporters say the technology behind genetically modified organisms is feeding the world at a time when the population keeps exploding and space to farm is getting scarcer.  Opponents say it poses health and environmental risks – the full scope of which is unknown, because its application is too new. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii firearms registrations have increased 72% since 2000 – but gun-related violence has dropped. Hawaii Independent.

At Hawaii Legislature, Access Equals Privilege. At the start of every annual session of the Legislature, lawmakers are invited to meals, drinks, talks and other activities sponsored by groups with business at the Capitol. Civil Beat.

Legislator jousts with U.S. high court over political spending. House Bill 1499 is state Rep. Karl Rhoads' symbolic response to Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, the landmark 2010 ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court which held that corporations and labor unions can spend unlimited amounts of money on elections as long as the spending is not coordinated with political candidates. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie capitalized on President Barack Obama’s State of the Union speech on Tuesday to emphasize his proposals to raise the state’s minimum wage and expand access to early childhood education. Civil Beat.

State House Higher Education Chairman Isaac Choy says legislators would be putting the University of Hawaii "on steroids" to help eliminate its massive repair backlog under a bill that advanced out of his committee Tuesday, over the objections of UH officials. Star-Advertiser.

Manoa Chancellor Tom Apple surprised members of the UH Manoa faculty senate earlier this month when he told them a plan to quell public controversy surrounding the director of the UH Cancer Center by restructuring its administration is a temporary solution to “calm the waters.” Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie and state education leaders pledged their commitment today to significantly boost the number of adults earning college degrees in the islands over the next decade. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie is set to make his third appointment to the Hawaii Supreme Court, making him the first governor in about two decades to select a majority of the five-member court. Associated Press.

How to Get High in Hawaii Without Breaking the Law. Civil Beat.

A selective list of bills, resolutions, hearings, briefings and events for Wednesday at the state Capitol. Civil Beat.

Oahu

First Wind, which has focused on wind-energy projects in Hawaii, is diving into solar energy with its first plans to build three separate major solar farms totaling 82 megawatts in Central Oahu, the chairman of the neighborhood board where the projects will be located, told Pacific Business News.

A report commissioned by Castle & Cooke, which has plans to build a major wind energy farm on Lanai, has identified three potential wind resource areas on Oahu and six other areas on Maui that would total 813 megawatts of capacity. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Placing liens against property when water or sewer bills are overdue, and shutting off water service for past-due sewer bills were two collection avenues discussed Tuesday by the county Water Board. West Hawaii Today.

A new electronic vehicle inspection system aimed at reducing fraud, errors and time spent on manually processing Hawaii licensed drivers’ data has made the procedure easier on the state and inspection stations, but some residents say it’s costing Big Island drivers time and money. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County officials, employees and residents celebrated the completion of a long-awaited repair project in Captain Cook. The renovated Yano Hall at Greenwell Park was rededicated Tuesday morning with speeches, prayer, music, food and pride. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A bill that seeks to implement disclosure and use restrictions on pesticides and Genetically Modified Organisms in Maui County was introduced before the Council’s Policy and Intergovernmental Affairs Committee today. Maui Now.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa is requesting two additional personnel within the Department of Agriculture to conduct pesticide inspections and alien species screening for Maui County. Maui Now.

The owner of the Pagoda Hotel, a popular and affordable rooming spot for many Mauians visiting Oahu for many years, plans to bring the brand to Maui with the prospective purchase of the Maui Beach Hotel. Maui News.

In an effort to promote open dialogue and greater understanding of its farming practices and products, Monsanto Hawaii said Monday that it is increasing its farm tours, holding community meetings and forums and having programs to promote a better understanding of the company. Maui News.

Kauai

A dairy farm could be operating on Kauai next year. Jim Garmatz, manager for Hawaii Dairy Farms, said their conservation plans have been approved by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. They are waiting approval and permits from the Department of Health. Garden Island.

Officials with the Kauai Department of Water came out Monday in hopes of discussing the cost-savings analysis report for the Kahili Horizontal Directional Drilled Well Project. Garden Island.

Supreme Court nominees named, GMO labeling bill advances, Monsanto ups Hawaii PR, airport screens for flu, school AC bill dies, unemployment at 4.5%, new buses for Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Supreme Court (c) 2014 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Judicial Selection Commission has selected six nominees for a vacancy on the state Supreme Court. The commission says Gov. Neil Abercrombie will draw from the list to appoint the judge who will replace retiring Associate Justice Simeon Acoba Jr. The nominees announced Monday were selected from 16 applicants. They are: Derrick Chan, Jeffrey Crabtree, Craig Nakamura, Richard Perkins, John Tonaki and Michael Wilson. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie must now name Hawaii's next associate justice on the Hawaii Supreme Court from a list of candidates that includes four state judges, the state public defender and a private attorney. The state Judicial Selection Commission submitted the names Monday to fill the vacancy on the court when Associate Justice Simeon Acoba leaves late next month because of the state Constitution's mandatory retirement provision at age 70 for judges and justices. Star-Advertiser.

A GMO labeling bill passed the state Senate Health Committee on Monday evening but faces a tortuous path to get through the rest of the chamber. The bill would establish labeling requirements, starting in January 2015, on any food sold in Hawaii that contains or was produced with genetically engineered material. Star-Advertiser.

If Monday’s Senate Health Committee Hearing on a bill to require labels on genetically engineered food is any indication, the debate over genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in Hawaii’s legislative session this year will be emotional. Monday’s hearing was the first time this session that lawmakers took up the GMO issue. The committee approved the bill, Senate Bill 2736, which would require labeling on all food that has genetically engineered material effective on Jan. 1 next year. Civil Beat.

A major seed company in Hawaii wants to improve its relationship with the community after two counties took a stand to regulate pesticide use and growth of genetically modified organisms. Monsanto Hawaii launched a new Web page, www.monsantohawaii.com, as a tool to inform the public about its agricultural practices. Community forums and more farm tours are also planned to respond to concerns, according to Vice President Fred Perlak. Star-Advertiser.

In a decision that strongly reaffirms beaches as a public trust resource, the Hawaii Supreme Court  has ruled the state must consider historical evidence when determining the shoreline. The opinion, released Monday morning, also reiterates the high court's 2006 ruling that vegetation may not be planted to manipulate the shoreline, which becomes the starting line for a building setback. Kauai Eclectic

An ambitious proposal that would have mandated air-conditioning in all public schools within the next five years was shelved Monday by a state Senate committee, which instead opted to have the Department of Education study the issue and come up with a strategy. Star-Advertiser.

A group of lawmakers wants to increase the state dental board’s regulation of dentists in Hawaii by clamping down on the ones who misrepresent themselves as certified specialists and legally requiring board approval of dentists who administer anesthesia and various types of sedation. Civil Beat.

Understanding Hawaii’s early-education initiative. Investing in our keiki through effective early-ed programs will save the state money in the long run, if the governor's proposal finds support in the legislature. The question is the overall quality of the program.  Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii Senator Wants to Keep Guns Out of the Hands of Drunk Cops. Civil Beat.

Minors, incarcerated criminals and illegal immigrants are represented in the 2012 Hawaii Reapportionment Plan. Military members and their “attached” spouses, as well as non-resident students, are not. A U.S. Supreme Court ruling, issued Jan. 21 in Kostick v. Nago, affirmed the constitutionality of the Reapportionment Plan, issued in 2012. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 4.5 percent in December, compared to 5.1 percent during the same month in 2012, the state Department of Labor & Industrial Relations said Monday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii's seasonally unemployment rate edged up to 4.5 percent in December from 4.4 percent in November, the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations reported Monday. Despite the increase, the report painted an overall positive picture of Hawaii's job market. Star-Advertiser.

On Tap at the Hawaii Legislature: Jan. 28. A selective list of bills, resolutions, hearings, briefings and events for Tuesday at the state Capitol. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Hawaii lawmakers are responding to last year’s molasses spill in Honolulu Harbor by suggesting any fines or settlements the state collects for ocean spills be put toward restoring coral reefs. Associated Press.

A group of state legislators called Monday for several molasses spill-related fixes to Hawaii law. Their proposals come as the public continues to wait for more details on what caused last fall's devastating leak of the thick substance into Honolulu Harbor — and the full scope of the damage it wreaked on the marine life there. Star-Advertiser.

The latest arrest of a Halawa prison guard for alleged drug smuggling is renewing new calls for reforms. And one of the biggest advocates is the head of the prison system himself. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu airport has a program to screen and swab any passengers who appear to have the flu but they depend on the airlines to report it to them. KHON2.

Honolulu city councilwoman Ann Kobayashi has introduced a bill that would allow city officials to remove nuisances on a person's property, outside of a home. KITV4.

Hawaii

State and county officials are working with the federal government to get a five-year exemption from meeting security standards at Kona International Airport in order to reopen an international inspection facility that’s been closed since 2010. West Hawaii Today.

East Hawaii drivers might get a taste of Honolulu-style traffic beginning in March as a lengthy road reconstruction project reduces a stretch of Kamehameha Avenue from four lanes to two. The $13 million project will run from Ponahawai Street to near the Wailoa River bridge on one of Hawaii County’s busiest corridors. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The state Department of Transportation has completed a draft environmental assessment for a nearly $3.2 million project to protect the shoreline and Kahului Beach Road from eroding into the ocean. Maui News.

The Maui County Department of Transportation hosted a dedication ceremony today for the addition of 10 new buses to the Maui fleet. County Transportation Director Jo Anne Johnson Winer said the buses cost a total of $4.8 million and were acquired with 20% county funds, and 80% federal funding through the Federal Transit Administration’s competitive Administration’s competitive State of Good Repair grant. Maui Now.

Kauai

Lawmakers in both the Hawaii Senate and House are pushing for legislation that would prohibit outsiders from fishing around “The Forbidden Island” of Niihau. Kauai legislators, however, aren’t taking the bait. Garden Island.

A Maui-based attorney is challenging Kauai County’s attempt to obtain free legal services. The procurement protest, filed Monday by Lance D. Collins of Wailuku, alleges the county’s solicitation to defend Ordinance 960 in federal court, regarding pesticides and genetically modified organisms, includes unethical legal practices and violates state and county laws. Garden Island.

The state Department of Health and Kauai County are seeking public feedback on a plan for the expansion and continued operation of Kekaha landfill. Officials will hold a public meeting on the proposal Thursday evening at the Waimea Neighborhood Center. Comments may also be sent by mail to the landfill office, Kauai County's solid waste division and the department's solid waste branch. Associated Press.

Hawaii may score America's Cup, Legislature mulls gay conversion therapy, tax relief for farmers, university may hire local president, Dog the Bounty Hunter wants more laws, Schatz supports minimum wage hike, Kauai residents to pay fee to opt out of smart meter, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

America's Cup 2013 courtesy photo

The CEO of Larry Ellison's America's Cup champion Oracle Team USA says officials are talking with other venues, including Hawaii, about hosting the 2017 America's Cup because San Francisco isn't offering the same terms it had for last year's sailing races. Pacific Business News.

The next America’s Cup could be sailed off a Hawaiian beach, on San Diego Bay or in some other port instead of returning to a San Francisco Bay course bordered by the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Associated Press.

State lawmakers will hear testimony Monday on a bill that would define "conversion therapy" as a form of child abuse. HB 1789 would ban the act of "conversion therapy" on minors. Hawaii News Now.

A bill making its way through the Hawaii Legislature seeks to provide a small measure of relief for livestock producers by exempting transportation costs for milk, poultry and other meats from the state’s general excise tax. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island Rep. Richard H.K. Onishi (Hilo, Keaau, Kurtistown, Pahala, Honoapu, Volcano) is calling for stronger protections for Hawaii’s farmers and ranchers by introducing a bill to strengthen Hawaii’s Right to Farm Act. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii lawmakers have proposed a number of bills this year aimed at making sure Hawaii is better prepared to deal with a toxic spill in the wake of the September molasses leak at Honolulu Harbor that killed thousands of fish and devastated coral reefs. Civil Beat.

Dog the Bounty Hunter, America’s best-known bounty hunter says it’s time for Hawaii to start regulating bounty hunters. Tribune-Herald.

Are you Filipino? The Hawaii Legislature has a caucus for you. Do you like spaceships? There's an AeroSpace Caucus, formed just this year. Support island agriculture? Check out the Local Food Caucus, another new hui. When it comes to getting certain types of legislation passed, caucuses are often the way to go. They allow lawmakers to work closely with like-minded colleagues, build support for issues of importance to them and raise the profile of their bills above the several thousand measures introduced each year. Civil Beat.

Schatz, Hanabusa

Deeper divide shown as Schatz, Hanabusa split on budget deal. U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz and U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa — rivals in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate — cast different votes. Schatz voted with the majority, including every Senate Democrat. Hanabusa was one of just 32 Democrats in the House to vote against the deal. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz is giving his support to a package of proposals that includes a significant raise to the minimum wage. Schatz is one of 29 co-sponsors of the minimum wage bill, introduced in November. Tribune-Herald.

Longline fishing boat owners said they expect to lose millions of dollars in tuna catches in the central and western Pacific under an agreement in which the United States will reduce its longline tuna catch for three years starting in 2015. Star-Advertiser.

The search for the next University of Hawaii president, now into its seventh month, is shifting to focus on finding a local candidate and possibly forgoing the hiring of an outside search firm. And that candidate could be interim President David Lassner. Star-Advertiser.

Tom Yamachika was named interim president of the Tax Foundation of Hawaii at a special board of directors meeting Jan. 16. The board acted quickly to name a successor to Lowell Kalapa, the long-time voice of the foundation, following Kalapa’s death in late December. Associated Press.

Oahu

Hawaii Sen. Clayton Hee is advocating for a new law that would create a park by Laniakea Beach on Oahu’s North Shore in an effort to address coastal erosion and get the state to move faster on long-held plans to fix traffic problems by the beach. The proposal is one of two bills that the influential lawmaker introduced last week in response to destructive waves wearing away beaches the North Shore. The second bill sets aside money for University of Hawaii scientists to create a beach management plan to mitigate coastal erosion in the area. Civil Beat.

Authorities have arrested an adult corrections officer at Halawa Correctional Facility in connection with a continuing investigation on methamphetamine dealing at the prison. Hawaii News Now.

Concerns about child harassment and a hostile work environment at a private college-preparatory school in Kapolei are alarming parents, driving away teachers and raising questions about the consequences of letting private schools in Hawaii regulate themselves. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

More than $13 million is headed for the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority to construct a new frontage road and intersections, upgrade a seawater pipeline and renovate administrative offices. West Hawaii Today.

The president of the Drug Policy Action Group told about 75 people at a “talk story” session about medical marijuana on Sunday that it is “a very exciting time to be involved with” marijuana activism. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Gene Simmons and friend

Looking every bit the rock stars that they are, all dark shades, tight jeans and pursed lips, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of Kiss welcomed county officials and other well-wishers Sunday to an event celebrating their soon-to-open Rock & Brews restaurant. Star-Advertiser.

A surge in shark attacks on Maui during the past year, including two fatal ones, hasn’t stopped people from surfing and swimming in the warm ocean waters that surround the island. But it spurred sales of devices that claim to keep sharks away by emitting an electric pulse. Associated Press.

The Maui County Council gave initial approval for the county to pay a penalty of $70,000 for alleged violations at the Central Maui and Molokai landfills in 2011. Maui News.

The state Department of Transportation has completed a draft environmental assessment for a nearly $3.2 million project to protect the shoreline and Kahului Beach Road from eroding into the ocean. Maui News.

The Maui County Council gave initial approval Friday to various bills, including one to keep county pools open during holidays and another to set building height limits in hotel districts. Maui News.

Kauai

The board’s decision stands. Members of Kauai Island Utility Cooperative voted to keep a fee structure in place that charges only members who opt out of using a smart meter. Garden Island.

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative voted to keep fees that are charged to customers who don't want to use the company's wireless smart meter to measure their energy usage. Star-Advertiser.

The Kauai County Council is reconsidering a measure that may change the tasks for a specialized group charged with framing a study on pesticides and genetically modified organisms on Kauai. That measure, passed on the heels of Bill 2491, sets forth guidelines for a group of at least 12 people to lay the groundwork for an Environmental and Public Health Impacts Study. Garden Island.

Last year, 77,500 tons of trash were disposed of at the county’s Kekaha landfill. And that’s a problem. That landfill is near capacity and will eventually have to be closed. The best way to extend its life is to reduce the amount of waste, an average of 210 tons a day, being delivered there. The county of Kauai has a plan. Garden Island.

GMO battle moves to Hawaii Legislature, tax breaks for the dead, lawmaker promotes Hawaii marijuana brands, Gore to speak, breastfeeding moms could skip jury duty, Honolulu affordable housing plan falls through, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

GMO corn research in Hawaii, courtesy photo

 The fight over genetically engineered crops is spilling over onto the floor of the Hawaii State Capitol. On Thursday, state lawmakers filed a bill that would prohibit counties from restricting farming practices, including the use of genetically modified organisms, seen as a response to GMO-related laws Hawaii and Kauai counties adopted last year. Tribune-Herald.

Two state lawmakers want to strengthen Hawaii's Right to Farm Act by preventing counties from restricting agricultural technology, modern livestock production and ranching practices that are allowed under federal and state law. The bill was prompted by a Kauai County law that regulates genetically modified organisms and pesticide use and a Hawaii County law that bans new GMO crops. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Rep. Richard Onishi from the Big Island has introduced a bill that would give Hawaii’s 2001 Right to Farm Act more teeth. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island House of Representative Richard H.K. Onishi (Hilo, Keaau, Kurtistown, Pahala, Honoapu, Volcano) is calling for stronger protections for Hawaii’s farmers and ranchers by introducing a bill to strengthen Hawaii’s Right to Farm Act. Hawaii Reporter.

She promised she hasn’t inhaled, but House Majority Floor Leader Rida Cabanilla said she hopes to legalize cultivation, manufacturing and exporting of Marijuana and Marijuana food products in Hawaii to pay off the state’s billions of dollars in unfunded liabilities as well as make infrastructure repairs and fund public education and human services programs. Hawaii Reporter.

Imagine a day when Maui Wowie and Kona Gold are legitimate marijuana brands sold around the world, when Hawaii factories create legal products such as Maui Wowie cookies, cannabis-infused ice cream and marijuana macadamia nut chocolate candies. That day might not be far off if state Rep. Rida Caba­nilla (D, Ewa Beach-West Loch Estates) has her way. The lawmaker has introduced a bill that would lead to a plan to legalize cultivation of marijuana in Hawaii for sale and export to countries where usage is lawful. Star-Advertiser.

The state House of Representatives has introduced a package of bills aimed at improving operations of the Hawaii Health Connector, including one that would move the nonprofit organization under state control, House lawmakers said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Leaders of two key committees in the Hawaii House say they plan to introduce a package of bills to help fix the state’s troubled health care exchange. The online insurance marketplace under President Barack Obama’s federal health care overhaul has had numerous problems, including a late start to open enrollment and few sign-ups. Associated Press.

Republican leaders in the Hawaii House say they're hopeful their package of bills proposing everything from voter referendums to limits on fee increases will be heard in a chamber dominated by Democrats. Associated Press.

A Hawaii House committee plans to debate a bill that would exempt breastfeeding mothers from jury duty. The bill is part of a package of measures from the Women's Legislative Caucus, a group of women who are lawmakers in the Senate and House. Hawaii News Now.

They are on the front lines protecting children against predators online.  But, here and elsewhere nationwide, those teams battling back child porn are often sorely underfunded and ill-equipped. KITV4.

Former Vice President Al Gore will visit Oahu in April to give a free public lecture on climate change as well as energy and water matters, University of Hawaii officials and Sen. Brian Schatz' office announced Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

An employee can collect workers' compensation for exposure to vog that aggravates an asthma condition, the Hawaii Supreme Court ruled Thursday. The Department of Education and the Labor Industrial Relations Appeals Board both denied a claim by Lynedon Van Ness. But in a 51-page unanimous ruling, the high court held that worsening of the 54-year-old man's asthma from the volcanic smog was related to his employment. Star-Advertiser.

In August, the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration  renamed one its facilities in Alaska that’s designed to warn large swaths of the coastal U.S. about impending tsunamis. The West Coast/Alaska Tsunami Warning Center would from then on be known as the National Tsunami Warning Center. The name change caused some angst within the ranks of NOAA, particularly for those who worked in the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii. Not only were there initial concerns about operations, but there was also worry that Hawaii’s center might not get as much funding anymore. Civil Beat.

The old saying that “land is power” is still relevant today, and is particularly true out here in the middle of the Pacific, where Hawai`i represents one of the smallest US states by land area. Here’s a brief look at how land is distributed across the main Hawaiian islands, and how it is used. Big Island Now.

Oahu

A $142 million deal to sell Honolulu’s public housing projects to a private developer collapsed Thursday, leaving gaping holes in the city’s budget and potentially submarining Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s ambitious plan to get some of the most chronic homeless off the streets. Civil Beat.

It’s a blow to a key Caldwell initiative, but it may be good for affordable housing. The city’s planned sale of its affordable housing properties has failed. Hawaii Independent.

The state has hired a mainland law firm to handle millions of dollars in environmental legal claims against Matson for last fall's massive molasses spill. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii House Majority Leader Scott Saiki has followed through on his promise to scrutinize the Hawaii Community Development Authority, introducing eight legislative measures that range from curbing the authority of the agency to getting rid of it altogether.  The state organization which manages development in Kakaako and Kalaeloa has been harshly criticized in recent months for approving a slew of new projects last year in Honolulu’s urban core. Civil Beat.

Glenn Martinez spent two days burying the hundreds of tilapia and koi that lived in a pond on his Wai­ma­nalo farm after the fish —worth thousands of dollars — mysteriously died Wednesday in one hour. Star-Advertiser.

It may not be the most pleasing to the eye, but sand bags strapped over large tarps equaled success at keeping scarce sand up against North Shore homes. KHON2.

Mall site blessed despite lack of lease. Construction on the first phase of the 1.4 million-square-foot regional mall Ka Makana Ali' in East Kapolei isn't slated to start until late this year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii
When Ben Franklin said, “nothing can be said to be certain except death and taxes,” he apparently wasn’t talking about Hawaii County. A comparison of property owners claiming the county homeowner’s exemption against vital statistics from the state Department of Health has discovered 1,200 deceased people benefiting from the exemption, some for as long as 10 years. That’s according to county Real Property Tax Administrator Stan Sitko. West Hawaii Today.

A Big Island charter school principal says bullying is a growing concern on campus, but not among students or teachers. Connections Public Charter School principal John Thatcher said the Hawaii State Ethics Commission and its executive director, Les Kondo, have been so aggressive in their years-long investigation into a conflict-of-interest case that it amounts to bullying. Civil Beat.

Hualalai Academy will close its doors to students in all grade levels at the end of this school year. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa announced he will deliver his 2014 State of the County Address on Wednesday, Feb. 5, from 5 to 6 p.m. in the McCoy Studio Theater at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center. Maui Now.

Faced with a tight deadline, Maui County Council members wrestled well into Wednesday evening with a number of issues arising from the proposed 203-home Kahoma Village fast-track affordable housing project in Lahaina. Maui News.

Eight prosecutors from Mongolia are on Maui to learn about the U.S. judicial system and observe 2nd Circuit Court proceedings, as their country looks toward judicial reform. Maui News.

Kauai

Plans for the nearly 3,000 acres of Kauai agricultural land recently purchased by Tennessee billionaire Brad Kelley, one of the largest private landowners in the United States, call for keeping it predominately the way it is, the president of Kelley’s real estate holding and development company told Pacific Business News.

Green bulbs, shielded lights and a “common-sense,” turn-them-off approach. These are some of the tools Pacific Missile Range Facility is using in its continued effort to protect Kauai’s native and threatened seabirds. Garden Island.

The Department of Parks and Recreation invites the public to a meeting to discuss the restoration and future use of the Hanalei Courthouse facility. The meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Hale Halawai Ohana o Hanalei Community Center, 5-5299 Kuhio Highway. Garden Island.