Hotel keys to keep tourists in quarantine, Ige backs off employee pay cuts, furloughs, Legislature divvies up federal CARES funds, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki hotels ©2020 All Hawaii News

One-time use key among new methods for strengthening quarantine monitoring. One of the updates included a new method hotels are making sure their guests are following the quarantine. This is by giving them a one-time use room key. KHON2.

Vacation rentals use loopholes to skirt quarantine. Vacation rentals, which have been ruled nonessential businesses statewide as government tries to stop the spread of COVID-19, are still drawing visitors to Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

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Ige tells state workers: There’s no ‘immediate need’ to consider pay cuts or furloughs. The governor sought to reassure state workers Tuesday, saying there is no “immediate need to consider pay cuts or furloughs” despite the gaping budget shortfall. Hawaii News Now.

Lawmakers Are Deciding How To Spend Federal Bailout Money. The House Finance Committee doesn’t want state agencies to use federal stimulus dollars if they already have state money that can be used. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers tackle the state's budget bills. COVID 19 plays a big part in budget requests and spending in the state's multi-billion dollar budget bills. KITV4.

Color-coded state recovery plan to be unveiled. A cryptic, color-coded plan to reopen more parts of Hawaii’s economy will be unveiled this week, the House Finance Committee was told Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

State aims to work with University of Hawaii to train contact tracers. The state Department of Health today asked lawmakers to appropriate about $2.5 million to fund a program at the University of Hawaii that would train workers to track contacts of people who have tested positive for COVID-19. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s Struggling Farms Want The State To Become A Bigger Customer. With local farmers reeling from a drop in demand from hotels and restaurants, advocates hope schools, prisons and hospitals will buy more local produce. Civil Beat.

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As ER Volumes Drop, Hawaii Doctors Worry People Are Delaying Care. Many health professionals across the state suspect the main reason for the decline in ER visits is patients’ fear of catching the coronavirus at the hospital. Hawaii Public Radio.

Doctors worry people are avoiding hospitals despite serious medical needs. Hawaii doctors are alarmed at the dramatic decline in emergency room visits in the last month. They say people are so afraid of contracting COVID-19, many are now ignoring life-threatening illnesses. Hawaii News Now.

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School’s Out And With It A Reliable System For Flagging Abuse. School closures caused by COVID-19 this spring have meant fewer reports of possible abuse, but more neighbors and relatives are making calls. Civil Beat.

One new coronavirus case on Oahu brings statewide total to 635. Health officials said this afternoon that the new case was an out-of-state resident who was screened at the airport and subsequently tested positive. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Pandemic Forces Honolulu Council To Slash Budget. Oahu’s local government isn’t expected to be as hard hit as Hawaii state government. Civil Beat.

State to borrow from new stadium project. While the state Legislature intends to pull back $20 million in general funds that had been appropriated to help build the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District, it still expects to allot a full $350 million in financing to the project, lawmakers said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu malls and retail centers plan to reopen Friday. Several of Oahu’s shopping malls and retail centers are getting ready to reopen Friday as part of the first phase in reopening the state’s economy, but with new guidelines in place in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu retailers urge customers to prepare for a very different shopping experience. Two months after they were forced to close down, Oahu retailers are scrambling to put the finishing touches on their stores to be able to reopen Friday. Hawaii News Now.

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Mayor offering grants to very small Oahu businesses. The city is directing at least $25 million in federal coronavirus relief aid to help very small businesses on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Caldwell announces new relief and recovery fund for small businesses. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell announces a Small Business Relief and Recovery Fund to help small local businesses who need it most, like mom and pop shops, and other Honolulu restaurants and stores that have been hit hard by COVID-19. KHON2.

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Rail’s interim opening is pushed back to March. City officials now don’t expect the first segment of the $9.2 billion rail line will be operational until March, three months later than had been forecast. Star-Advertiser.

Date for rail to be up and running pushed back. The date that the Honolulu rail system was set to be up and running has been pushed back. KITV4.

City Council Grows Anxious As Rail’s COVID-19 Problems Deepen. The transit project has been plagued for years by skyrocketing costs. Now it faces a $100 million slump in the revenues that fund construction. Civil Beat.

After more than a year of deliberations, the Honolulu Rate Commission gave final OK to a plan that raises daily fares and monthly and annual passes for bus and rail riders but leaves it up to the City Council to decide when the new rates should kick in. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii police union announces endorsement in Honolulu mayoral race. A former broadcast executive turned mayoral candidate has scooped up a valuable endorsement. The State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers endorsed Rick Blangiardi for Honolulu mayor on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

The Pandemic Ignites A Bike Boom In Honolulu. With gyms closed and other exercise options limited, bicycle shops say they are selling almost every bike they can get their hands on. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

$80M CARES funds could come to Hawaii County. Hawaii County would receive $80 million in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act funding under a bill moving through the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

PGV reboot delayed again. Commercial operations at Puna Geothermal Venture are expected to begin in the fourth quarter, said parent company Ormat Technologies Inc. on Monday as part of a first-quarter earnings update. Tribune-Herald.

Corporation counsel responds to ACLU letter criticizing county’s decision to remove homeless camp. Hawaii County’s top civil attorney responded to a letter by the American Civil Liberties Union criticizing the county’s decision to remove a downtown Hilo homeless camp in April. Tribune-Herald.

No Active COVID-19 Cases On Hawaii Island, Civil Defense Reports. All 75 identified cases of COVID-19 on the Big Island have been cleared by the Department of Health as recovered, the mayor says. Big Island Video News.

The Big Island now has no active COVID-19 cases, but mayor urges vigilance. Hawaii Island on Tuesday reached an encouraging milestone in the coronavirus pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Mayor Says “Absolutely Not” When Asked about Lifting Travel Quarantine on May 31st. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino said he plans to announce tomorrow (Wednesday, May 13, 2020), Phase 2 of the opening of Maui’s parks. Maui Now.

A Mixed Reopening. Customers hope more shops resume business. Just because retailers were allowed to reopen Monday didn’t mean they would actually do it, many shoppers learned when visiting malls around Maui. Maui News.

Retail businesses on Maui slow to reopen. Free standing stores and some stores within shopping malls are now allowed to get back to business but many are choosing to remain closed. KITV4.

Kauai

Groundbreaking for Pua Loke. Construction for the $27.5 million project will consist of three residential buildings containing one- to three-bedroom rental units and is slated to begin before the end of this month. Garden Island.

Suicide uptick raises concern. Four suicides on Kaua‘i in less than a week have prompted concern by police and health workers that the COVID-19 crisis is moving in a dangerous new direction, with broad risks to mental health caused by joblessness, financial reversals and despair. Garden Island.

Seal found dead was pregnant. The Hawaiian monk seal found dead on Ha‘ena Beach in late April was pregnant, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Garden Island.

Masks, physical distancing instituted as Legislature goes back into session, Lt. Gov. Green pushes to open restaurants and salons May 25, Gen. Hara warns of possible riots, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Legislature opens May 11, 2020 PC:Hawaii House Democrats

Lawmakers return to Capitol to make budget fixes and avoid furloughs. Masked state lawmakers gathered at the Capitol on Monday, returning to work in floor sessions where they sat 6 feet away from one another in a striking display of caution that illustrates how much has changed with the rapid spread of COVID-19 across the state and the country. Star-Advertiser.

Back In Session: Hawaii Lawmakers Grapple With A Billion-Dollar Budget Hole. Gov. David Ige is not on board with much of the Legislature’s fiscal plan including how to spend federal bailout money and public worker pay cuts. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers back to work on budget bills. The state legislative is back in session and lawmakers focus on financial bills during this tough economic time. KITV4.

Lawmakers outline plans to make up state’s budget shortfall. Lawmakers said Monday they plan to plug a projected $1 billion hole in the state budget for the upcoming fiscal year by using money from the rainy day fund, reducing vacancies in state bureaucracies and issuing bonds. Associated Press

‘Clerical error’ overstated state’s coronavirus-related budget shortfall — but by how much? During a press conference on Monday, Governor David Ige acknowledged his budget staff made a financial miscalculation before he proposed 20% pay cuts for all state workers several weeks ago. Hawaii News Now.

House Speaker Saiki Remarks At Reconvening Legislature. Over the coming weeks, Speaker Saiki said, lawmakers will work to avoid drastic budget cuts and disruption in basic government services. Big Island Video News.

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Gov. David Ige considers photographing incoming Hawaii visitors to improve quarantine compliance. An effort to improve screening of non-residents arriving at Hawaii airports may include photographing them, under a plan that’s being explored by state officials, Gov. David Ige said. Star-Advertiser.


Green Announces ‘Travel With Aloha’ Program. Lieutenant Governor Josh Green on Monday announced his “Travel With Aloha” initiative, which proposes all those who want to travel to Hawai‘i receive a rapid turnaround test for COVID-19. If they test negative, they could be exempted from the stipulations of the mandatory, 14-day travel quarantine. Big Island Now.

Hawaiian Airlines blocks middle seats and requires face coverings amid pandemic. Airlines are starting to change how passengers board and sit inside planes amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Hawaiian Airlines is flying some of its larger parked jets on neighbor island flights to allow for physical distancing. KHON2.

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Ige says Hawaii ‘flattening curve’ but must remain vigilant. Gov. David Ige on Monday afternoon lauded Hawaii for continuing to “flatten the curve” but warned that social distancing must continue to stay on track so that the state can slowly reopen its economy. Star-Advertiser.

Coronavirus recovery a ‘marathon,’ not a sprint, Gov. Ige says. For 23 consecutive days, fewer than six new cases of the novel coronavirus have been reported statewide. But in light of the downward trend, as businesses across the state either reopen or prepare to do so, Gov. David Ige is cautioning Hawaii residents to move forward carefully. Hawaii News Now.

Lt. Gov. eyes May 25 for ‘medium risk businesses’ to reopen. With new cases of the coronavirus few and far between, leaders are getting more specific about what the next phase of reopening looks like. On Monday the Lt. Governor said he believes it’s safe enough to get the the majority of the kamaaina economy back up and running. Things like restaurants, salons and what he calls other medium risk businesses. Hawaii News Now.

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2 coronavirus clusters in Hawaii involved people who went to parties, Maj. Gen. Kenneth Hara says. Two clusters of people who became ill with COVID-19 in Hawaii involved parties where people apparently ignored warnings to engage in social distancing and avoid social gatherings, according to Maj. Gen. Kenneth Hara, the incident commander for the state’s coronavirus response. Star-Advertiser.

2 New COVID-19 Cases Confirmed In Hawaii. The state has confirmed 634 COVID-19 cases since the first case of the virus was reported in early March. About 13% of those people have been hospitalized. Civil Beat.

Cases Up 2; Health Dept. Under More Fire; Prosecutor Raises Alarms Over Inmates. Hawaii recorded two new coronavirus cases today. The state health department reported that the count is now at 634 and the deaths stand at 17. Oahu cases are at 410, Maui County at 117, Hawaii Island at 75 and Kauai County at 21. There are 11 cases diagnosed out of state. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Delay in reopening economy could lead to rioting. The head of Hawaii’s coronavirus response team said Monday that further delays in reopening Hawaii’s economy — especially to tourism — could result in rioting. Star-Advertiser.

General Hara Warns Of Civil Unrest. Members of the House Select Committee on COVID-19 Economic and Financial Preparedness heard the concerns of the incident commander for the state's coronavirus response. Big Island Video News.

If economic strife continues, Gen. Hara worries of ‘civil unrest’ in Hawaii. Governor Ige's cautious approach to reopening the economy drew harsh warnings Monday from the business and government leaders who are advising him. One of their concerns is the possibility of riots. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Ige: Civil unrest unlikely. Gov. David Ige said Monday he doesn’t think Hawaii’s current economic crisis in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic will lead to civil unrest. Tribune-Herald.

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Gov. Ige on CARES Act Funding: $175 Million to be Split Among Kaua‘i, Maui and Hawai‘i Counties. Governor David Ige said Maui will split $175 million in federal funds with Kauaʻi and Hawaiʻi counties as part of the CARES Act appropriation for the state. Maui Now.

Hawaii’s Struggling Farms Want The State To Become A Bigger Customer. With local farmers reeling from a drop in demand from hotels and restaurants, advocates hope schools, prisons and hospitals will buy more local produce. Civil Beat.

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Hawaiian Homes Launches Rental Relief Program. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands and Aloha United Way today launched the new program for beneficiaries. Big Island Video News.

New program will provide financial assistance to eligible beneficiaries on DHHL wait list. Financial help is on the way for Hawaiians on the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands wait list. KITV4.

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The doors of Hawaii’s libraries are still open online. Although the Hawaii State Public Library System’s 51 branches are closed during, people are still flocking to make use of its myriad online resources. Star-Advertiser.

2020 graduates’ job prospects predicted to be grim. As graduation nears, Hawaii college and high school seniors might face a slim chance of landing a job during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization. Star-Advertiser.

16 New Solar Farms For Hawaii But Utility Won’t Say Where Exactly. The public might have to wait 30 days for details of plans for 16 solar-plus-storage or standalone storage projects on three islands. Civil Beat.

USS Nevada located off of Oahu. The wreck of the Nevada was found about 75 miles southwest of Pearl Harbor in more than 15,400 feet of water. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Invited To Testify On Spending Federal Aid. Residents can share their thoughts about how to spend $387 million. Civil Beat.

New legislation asks for $100 million to help Honolulu’s small businesses. Oahu is getting about $380 million dollars, and now a big push is being made to take a $100 million of that and put it toward small businesses. KHON2.

Pearlridge Center, other retailers begin to detail phased reopening plans.  Reduced hours, rearranged food courts and continued respect for social distancing practices are among the guidelines retailers are setting forth ahead of May 15, the date most such stores will be allowed to reopen on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

International Market Place will reopen on Friday. The center court and grassy lawn areas will remain closed along with drinking fountains. KITV4.

Retailers looking to nab cleaning supplies and sanitizer before reopening. Retailers are preparing to reopen this week, but finding the necessary cleaning supplies and protective gear is becoming a challenge for some. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Antibody testing begins on the Big Island. Drive-through testing for COVID-19 antibodies, which started last week on the Big Island, is apparently the first of its kind available in Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Ample, Highly Accurate Antibody Tests to go Widescale Inside the Month. Antibody testing arrived on Hawai‘i Island for public use over the weekend, and Lieutenant Governor Josh Green said Monday he thinks widescale surveys will be underway across all islands inside of the month. Big Island Now.

Maui

A Maui company making ventilators is now getting international orders. Maui County spent $100,000 to purchase 64 newly manufactured ventilators – all made by Maui engineers. Hawaii News Now.

Maui Police Conduct Walk Through at Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center on Day 1 of Phased Reopening. Many retailers remain closed or are in the process of cleaning for a future reopening. Maui Now.

Hotel developer moving forward despite economic downturn. Draft EA released for six-story Hotel Wailuku. Even with travel down and the economy struggling during the coronavirus pandemic, a Wailuku landowner is moving forward with plans to build a 156-room hotel in Wailuku town. Maui News.

Kauai

Keeping short-term rentals closed. While restrictions and stay-at-home orders are being lifted around the island, short-term vacation rentals and homestays have been shut down through the end of May. Garden Island.

Lawmakers reach tentative deal on budget patch, loopholes let visitors break quarantine, Honolulu bus driver attacked for requiring mask, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol ©2020 All Hawaii News

Legislative Deal In The Works Would Use Untapped Funds To Dodge Budget Cuts. A new financial plan taps into mostly unused funds while moving around money for affordable housing and Aloha Stadium. Civil Beat.

As the state legislature is set to reconvene on Monday, lawmakers have reached a tentative deal on a key bill allocating $862 million in state CARES Act money to the neighbor islands and for emergency services. What’s unusual about the measure is that it’s lawmakers ― and not Governor David Ige’s administration ― who are directing how the emergency money should be spent. Hawaii News Now.

Reconvened Legislative Session Seeks to “Plug $1 Billion Hole” in Budget. When the 2020 Legislative session reconvenes on Monday, May 11, the State Capitol will be secured and closed to the general public. Only lawmakers and essential staff will be given access to the building. Maui Now.

State House committee looks at when, how to reopen economy at Monday meeting. Lawmakers hear informational briefing on the economic impact of COVID-19 in Hawaii. KITV4.

How COVID-19 affects the Legislature's process, and the public's participation. Even though the public is not physically allowed into the building, there are many ways they can participate in the process and contribute to the outcome of proposed legislation. KITV4.

Push is on to fund programs to prevent Hawaii’s homelessness. With the state Legislature re-starting on Monday, nonprofit organizations and the state’s homeless coordinator are warning about a surge in newly homeless families and the need to continue funding social service programs even as the economy shrinks. Star-Advertiser.

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State’s 14-day quarantine has loopholes. A majority of the 460 visitors who flew to Oahu on Friday and Saturday said they would be staying with family or friends. Star-Advertiser.

Visitors find loopholes to break quarantine, residents frustrated. For the second weekend in a row North Shore beaches were packed with people. KHON2.

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Lack of clear plan to replace tourism leaves Hawaii’s economic future in doubt. The Hawaii economy needs a reset, and COVID-19 has provided the opportunity to do it. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii homeowners, including super rich, try to tap COVID-19 small business aid. Multiple Hawaii homeowner associations have applied and been approved for forgivable Payroll Protection Program loans despite not being eligible, according to a local Small Business Administration official. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Missed An Opportunity To Fix Its Benefits System Before COVID-19 Struck. A proposal following the Great Recession to build a single benefits portal for multiple agencies “died on the vine.” Many believe it would have helped alleviate the current crisis. Civil Beat.

Ige Balks At Proposal To Loan Money To Jobless In Limbo. Hawaii’s jobless can’t afford to go two months without income — and they can’t wait much longer for their claims to be approved, Sen. Laura Thielen said. Civil Beat.

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Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders Confront High Rates Of COVID-19 In Many States. In many Western states, as well as Arkansas which has a large Marshallese population, these communities have virus rates that far exceed their share of the population. Civil Beat.

A Hawaiian in New York warns islanders to stay on guard against COVID-19. In light of scientists’ warnings of a second COVID-19 wave, Honolulu expatriate Kiana Davenport, who has been confined alone in a rented New York City studio apartment since March 22, said she feels alarmed by the relaxed attitude she encounters when she calls to check on family back home. Star-Advertiser.

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Just 4 new COVID-19 cases total reported over the weekend. But even with the overall low daily case counts, authorities said while the flattened curve is a positive affirmation of strict precautions, residents shouldn’t grow complacent. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Reports 1 New COVID-19 Case Sunday. The Hawaii Department of Health reported one new COVID-19 case Sunday, on Oahu, bringing the state’s total for the pandemic to 632. Civil Beat.

Hawaii COVID-19 Updates for Sunday, May 10. One newly reported case of COVID-19 on Oʻahu brings the cumulative total cases statewide to 632, as Hawaiʻi island holds at 75 cases. Big Island Video News.

1 new COVID-19 case on Oahu brings the state total to 632. 1 new COVID-19 case on Oahu brings the state total to 632. KHON2.

DOH Reports 1 New Coronavirus Case Overnight. Hawai‘i Department of Health officials reported one new case of coronavirus overnight, raising the statewide total to 632. Big Island Now.

1 New Case Sunday on O‘ahu: Hawai‘i Coronavirus Total Now 632. As of noon on Sunday, May 10, 2020, there are 632 cases of COVID-19 identified in Hawaiʻi with one new case in the state on the island of Oʻahu. Maui Now.

Department of Health removes Hawaii COVID-19 deaths from ‘released from isolation’ category. After including Hawaii’s COVID-19-related deaths in its “released from isolation” category for months, the Hawaii Department of Health has decided to remove them. Star-Advertiser.


Oahu

No face mask, no ride: Man arrested for striking bus driver, door with crutch.  man has been arrested in Honolulu after allegedly hitting a city bus driver with a crutch, and damaging the door — all because he refused to keep on a face mask. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu bus driver attacked after confronting rider without mask, police say. Honolulu police arrested a 63-year-old man after he allegedly attacked a city bus driver who instructed him to keep his mask on to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

4 cited for hiking the closed Sacred Falls trail on anniversary of 1999 tragedy. Three people were let off the hook while trying to hike Sacred Falls — but four others weren’t so lucky. Two Honolulu residents and two residents of Brazil and Argentina got citations from DLNR enforcement officers Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

Condoms, other personal items found in Waikiki massage parlor raid. Prosecutors raided a local massage parlor on Kalakaua Avenue as part of a crack down on the sex trafficking trade in Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Special council meeting to hear bill to create luxury home class. A new tax classification for properties assessed at more than $2 million will be the subject of a special County Council meeting this week — and for the first time since the COVID-19 restrictions began, the public will be able to testify in person. West Hawaii Today.

Jail population plummets: HTH sought list of inmates released to due pandemic — but there isn’t one, officials say. The state Department of Public Safety and Hawaii Judiciary have been reducing the population in the state’s jails and prisons because of a Supreme Court order for them to do so in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

Maunakea observatories prepare to reopen. Maunakea Observatories are gradually resuming activities after being given the go-ahead to reopen last week. Tribune-Herald.

On a roll: Roberts takes over Hele-On contract. The first new buses in five years and a new contractor had the Hele-On bus system on track for a better year. Until COVID-19 hit. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

New managing director charter proposal set for November ballot. County Council OKs putting governance change to voters. Maui News.

Maui Council Has Figured Out How To Do Virtual Meetings Right. Unlike the other two county councils and the Honolulu City Council, Maui still allows live, public participation despite the pandemic. Civil Beat.

Methods behind contact tracing revealed. Maui health officials have digital resource as backup but prefer the human touch. Maui Now.

Kauai

Mayor tightens budget belt. On Friday, Mayor Derek Kawakami submitted a supplemental budget that showed a $10 million reduction in the proposed operating budget, to stand at $250,777,323, and a $22,642,237 capital improvement projects budget. Garden Island.

Making a comeback. The waters in ‘Anini Bay are starting to clear after heavy rains in April clouded much of the bay with light sediment. Garden Island.

Hawaii Legislature reconvenes Monday to tackle $1B shortfall, new rules coming for tourists, CARES money to provide safety net, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii lawmakers will return to Capitol on Monday to help patch huge state budget hole. Hawaii lawmakers will return to the state Capitol on Monday to get back to work, and their primary mission is to find ways to cope with a looming budget shortfall and prevent furloughs and pay cuts for public workers. Star-Advertiser.

Legislature Reconvenes Monday To Deal With $1B Shortfall. House Speaker Scott Saiki and Senate President Ron Kouchi said the session may last from 6 to 10 days. Hawaii Public Radio.

Legislature reconvening next week to figure out budget shortfall. The state legislature is estimating about a billion-dollar shortfall. To address the shortfall, the state senate and the house will be reconvening next week. KHON2.

Legislature will reconvene next week to address budget shortfall. The state Legislature will reconvene next week — after more than a month of recess — in order to address the state’s growing budget shortfall. Tribune-Herald.

Hawai‘i Legislature to Reconvene on May 11 After Nearly 2 Month Recess. Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi and House Speaker Scott K. Saiki today announced that the Hawaiʻi State Senate and the Hawaiʻi State House of Representatives will reconvene the 2020 legislative session on Monday, May 11. Maui Now.

As lawmakers grapple with $1B shortfall, advocates urge them to preserve social safety net. As lawmakers prepare to grapple with a $1 billion budget shortfall when they reconvene Monday, advocates for the poor are warning them not to repeat the mistakes of the past. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii’s tourism recovery could take years, experts say. Occupancy at Hawaii hotels plummeted to about 10% statewide for several weeks in April as COVID-19 fears and lockdowns ravaged the state’s tourist- driven economy. Star-Advertiser.

Is Hawaii Ready To Reopen The Economy? Some Experts Say Not Yet. State, county and health experts are publicly at odds over whether enough trained workers are in place to track an expected resurgence of the virus, especially when tourists return. Civil Beat.

New requirements ahead for passengers arriving in Hawaii. Two major changes are in the plans for arriving passengers: a new level of scrutiny and a new form designed to give officials information to follow up on — and potentially prosecute — failed promises to adhere to statewide quarantine rules. Star-Advertiser.

Airline Rep Questioned On Informing Passengers About Quarantine. An airline industry spokesperson was questioned by state senators Thursday about how well customers planning a trip to Hawaiʻi are informed about the 14-quarantine mandated for all visitors to the islands. Big Island Video News.

Lawmakers face more hurdles trying to crack down on quarantine violators. More frustration for state lawmakers trying to crack down on visitors who don’t follow the 14-day quarantine order. Plans to immediately fine violators face legal challenges. KHON2.

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Schools Chief: Use Federal Bailout Money To Avoid Teacher Pay Cuts. Superintendent Christina Kishimoto outlined some plans for federal stimulus money, including keeping salaries at current levels. Civil Beat.

Hawaii teachers inundate Board of Education with testimony against pay cuts. More than 900 Hawaii public school teachers pleaded with the state Board of Education not to cut their pay to meet the looming budget shortfall. Star-Advertiser.

Teachers look to BOE to protect pay in the face of looming cuts. Teachers are pressuring the Hawaii Board of Education to help protect their pay as the state legislature prepares to start cutting the budget. Hawaii News Now.

Special needs students falling behind. As schools remain closed and offer virtual distance learning while the COVID-19 pandemic runs its course, many parents worry that their children are regressing, especially students who need special education services. Maui News.

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Unemployment Update: 141,077 Claims Processed, Additional 84,500 Under Review. Since the start of COVID-19 response in Hawaiʻi, the state has paid out over $320 million in benefits. Maui Now.

State kicks off alphabetized system for unemployment claims certification. Thousands of laid off workers frustrated with trying to file weekly certifications for their unemployment claims are being encouraged to instead file on designated days. Hawaii News Now.

The Department of Labor to implement alphabetized system for unprocessed unemployment claims. Due to what the governor called an “antiquated system,” tens of thousands of unemployment claims are still waiting to be processed. KHON2.

State asks unemployment claimants to file on specific days. In an effort to deal with a glut of unemployment claims, the state requested beneficiaries to file claims only on specific days of the week. Tribune-Herald.

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Hawaii’s coronavirus cases rise by 3 to 629. Hawaii’s tally of coronavirus cases has risen to 629, up three from Wednesday, the state Department of Health announced today. All three new cases are on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Three New COVID-19 Infections Confirmed On Oahu. As of Thursday, about 87% of those infected had gotten better. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s COVID-19 cases ‘released from isolation’ category includes fatalities. Media and sometimes government officials have referred to the “released from isolation” cases as people who have recovered from the virus. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell announces $25M program to reimburse household and childcare expenses during coronavirus. Caldwell said the program, called the COVID-19 “Hardship Relief for Individuals” program, will start May 18 with $25 million in seed money from the federal coronavirus aid bill. Star-Advertiser.

City announces $25M program to provide emergency aid to struggling Oahu families. With tens of thousands of Oahu residents unemployed, the city is launching a new emergency relief program to provide up to $1,000 a month to families in need. Hawaii News Now.

Pandemic Bust Your Budget? Honolulu Will Help With Expenses. Residents who can demonstrate they’re struggling can get six months of help with housing, utilities and child care. Civil Beat.

Mayors announce financial relief programs. On Thursday, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced a city program to assist families who are struggling financially during the COVID-19 pandemic. KHON2.

City and County of Honolulu offering financial assistance to residents in need. The new program just announced on Thursday is called the COVID-19 Hardship relief fund. KITV4.

City and County of Honolulu receiving grant money from the Federal Transit Administration. The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Transportation Services (DTS) will be receiving award funding from the Federal Transit Administration through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. KITV4.

Honolulu attorney connected to Katherine Kealoha is arrested again. A troubled Honolulu attorney who entered the spotlight during investigations into disgraced former deputy city Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha has been arrested again. Christopher Woo, 47, was arrested early Thursday morning for allegedly driving a stolen car. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hilo retailers begin reopening. Prince Kuhio Plaza is planning a tentative opening Saturday, with social distancing measures enforced throughout the stores and mall. Tribune-Herald.

Red tape: Administering CARES money costs a lot. Four Big Island charities have been approved for a portion of a $1.5 million federal grant. But the red tape will eat up $250,000 of it. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo Muni Golf Course Reopening With Some New Rules. All persons arriving at the golf course to play shall wear face masks or face coverings, the County says, as it sets to reopen on Monday, May 11. Big Island Video News.

County to Open Three Greenwaste Sites on Limited Basis. After widespread calls to reopen its greenwaste services, Hawai‘i County is making such disposal available at three sites islandwide. Each site will be available three days per week. Big Island Now.

Maui

County retail businesses allowed to open Monday. Mayor says ‘miscommunication’ with Ige cleared up. Maui News.

Six visitors who violate quarantine rules are sent back. Six Maui visitors were being sent back to California on Wednesday after reports that they violated 14-day quarantine rules, a Maui airport official said. Maui News.

Kauai

Continuing to fund COVID-19 efforts. When the Kaua‘i County Council allocated $2 million to battle COVID-19 in March, most of these funds went toward sanitation products, personal protection supplies and operation of the Emergency Operation Center. Garden Island.

New kind of litter. Gloves, masks and other personal protective equipment are starting to accumulate on Kaua‘i shorelines, as well as places around the world, and Surfrider Foundation’s local Hawai‘i chapters are joining the nationwide organization in a campaign to bring awareness to the fact that discarded PPE is adding to the plastic pollution on the world’s shorelines. Garden Island.

Just 1 new COVID-19 case: Hawaii opens more parks, stores, Senate panel mulls tough new tourist rules, Obama building Oahu home, Zuckerberg donates to Kauai community, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lt. Gov. Josh Green at May 6, 2020 press conference on Facebook Live

Ige, Green make case for partial opening of economy. With Hawaii on a two-week roll of single digit cases of COVID-19 per day, Gov. David Ige and Lt. Gov. Josh Green teamed up Wednesday to explain and defend the first phase of reopening the state’s economy, which starts today. Star-Advertiser.

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State parks reopen on a limited basis. Select Hawaii state parks have been reopened for active hiking and beach exercise during daylight hours, subject to restrictions and continued requirements that visitors respect social distancing, stay in motion and avoid gatherings “of any sort,” the state Division of State Parks announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Opens Select State Parks. The Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of State Parks is re-opening select parks and monuments across the state with an emphasis on social distancing and exercise, and continued restrictions on gatherings of any sort. Big Island Video News.

More beach parks, hikes open for exercise; social distancing rules still apply. As more parks and beaches reopen ahead of Mother’s Day weekend, it’s important to remember that rules still apply and will be enforced. KHON2.

On beach closures, the governor and lieutenant governor aren’t on the same page. Despite the growing list of businesses and state parks that are set to reopen, Gov. David Ige says Hawaii’s beaches are still off limits for relaxing and sunbathing. Hawaii News Now.

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Just 1 new coronavirus case in Hawaii, bringing statewide tally to 626. Hawaii’s coronavirus tally has risen by just one case today to a total of 626, the state Department of Health announced. The new case was an adult on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii reports just 1 new COVID-19 case, bringing statewide total to 626. Hawaii is reporting just one new COVID-19 case Wednesday, bringing the statewide total to 626. The new case is on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

DOH Reports 1 New Case of Coronavirus Statewide. Hawai‘i Department of Health officials reported one new case of coronavirus overnight, bringing the statewide total to 626. Big Island Now.

Just 1 More COVID-19 Case Reported On Oahu. Gov. David Ige said Wednesday that he is lifting some restrictions because Hawaii has gone two weeks with fewer than six new cases confirmed per day. Civil Beat.

Lt. Gov. Green Compares Hawaii COVID-19 Rates To Nation. Hawaiʻi has the lowest mortality rate from COVID-19 infection in the entire United States, says Lieutenant Governor Josh Green, as well as the second lowest case rate in the nation. Big Island Video News.

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Tougher rules ahead for quarantined visitors. New measures are being proposed to make sure travelers are not carrying COVID-19 into the state, some of these include testing before travel as well as tougher rules under quarantine. KHON2.

State Senate panel makes recommendations to beef up quaratine enforcement. A state Senate committee is recommending that hotels not issue room keys to visitors during the mandatory 14-day self-quarantine period, nor should visitors be allowed to rent cars while officially quarantined. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii lawmakers make series of suggestions to crack down on visitors who violate quarantine. A legislative committee charged with helping to steer the state’s response to COVID-19 is making a series of suggestions aimed at better enforcing a mandatory quarantine for visitors. Hawaii News Now.

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Businesses seek clear path and protocols for reopening, as clock ticks on companies’ survival. Business owners and workers are happy to see some sectors start to get the green light to re-open, but the approval process has some baffled. KHON2.

Gov. and mayors clear the air on when businesses can open. Oahu retailers will open next week Friday. Other counties such as Kauai and the Big Island can open Thursday. Maui will open on Monday. KHON2.

Ige Says Child Care Centers Can Reopen. But Are They Ready? At least 100 private, licensed facilities have never closed since the pandemic, limiting care to children of essential workers. Civil Beat.

State Lacks Child Care Plan As Parents Return To Work. Gov. David Ige’s newest emergency proclamation allows more businesses to reopen their doors as early as tomorrow. Hawaii Public Radio.

To ease burden on system, state asks laid off workers to file certifications only on certain days. Thousands of laid off workers frustrated with trying to file weekly certifications for their unemployment claims are being encouraged to instead file on designated days. Hawaii News Now.

Ige halts suspension of open government laws. The latest emergency proclamation by Gov. David Ige steps back from blanket suspensions of the state open meetings and open records laws that he had issued in mid-March in an effort to lessen the spread of the coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

Low Risk Safety Checks Can Resume May 15. The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation is coordinating the reopening of stations for Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspections (PMVI or Safety Checks) starting Friday, May 15. Maui Now.

Safety checks to resume starting May 15. Safety check certificates and stickers expiring on or before May 31, 2020, will remain valid until August 31, 2020. All other safety checks that expire in 2020 will be valid for an additional three months after the 2020 expiration date. KHON2.

Home sales in Hawaii take hit amid pandemic. Hawaii’s real estate market is now getting pounded from complications of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu faces nine-figure budget shortfall, City Councilmember suggests bonds. The City and County of Honolulu announced Wednesday that it is expecting a budget shortfall of $130 million in 2021. KHON2.

Oahu property tax payers can pay in installments. All property tax payers on Oahu will have more time to pay the major portion of their August tax bills under a plan unveiled by Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu To Allow Delayed Property Tax Payments. Property tax payments can be delayed to help during the pandemic but won’t be forgiven. Civil Beat.

City gives relief to property owners in regards to their next tax bill. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is giving some relief to property owners when it comes to paying their next property tax bill. KITV4.

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Oahu retailers left puzzled over ‘lack of collaboration’ in reopening announcement. After the governor’s announcement Tuesday about reopening a large portion of Hawaii’s economy, Oahu retailers started scrambling to figure out how they’d reopen in two days. Then came a sudden change: The Governor’s Office said the reopening date for Oahu was actually May 15. Hawaii News Now.

Confusion over order hits O'ahu retailers. Store owners say they know things will be different but they also say staying closed too long isn't an option. KITV4.

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4,000 line up again for free food. For the second time in a week, thousands of cars lined up for more than a mile and waited for hours to pick up 50 pounds of free food. Star-Advertiser.

Many heartbroken to see long lines again at food assistance site. Hundreds of vehicles once again lined the street for Oahu’s second food distribution event at Aloha Stadium. KHON2.

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UH Is Making Students Vacate Campus Housing Next Week. About 750 students still live on campus at the University of Hawaii Manoa. But most are being told to move out by May 16 even as the stay-at-home order makes it hard to find housing. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Moving To Expand Crackdown On Homeless. The city’s sit-lie ban could soon include streets around the Institute for Human Services, but shelters don’t have enough room for those living in encampments. Civil Beat.

Civil Rights Lawsuit Against Kealohas Stuck In Limbo. Gerard Puana’s attorney wants a federal judge to lift a temporary hold on the case so that a resolution can be found. Civil Beat.

On property under construction, Waimanalo looks forward to a very presidential neighbor. The Waimanalo beachfront property made famous by the hit 1980s television series “Magnum PI” has been mostly leveled and new structural elements are being constructed. State records indicate the property with multiple homes and a guard shack could be slated for the former President Barack Obama and his family. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Mayor sets reopening requirements for some businesses and parks. A gradual reopening of Hawaii County businesses, parks and community facilities moved another step forward Wednesday, with Mayor Harry Kim announcing his latest set of rules. West Hawaii Today.

More Businesses, Parks to Reopen in Hawai‘i County. Hawai‘i County is moving forward with plans to reopen additional businesses and parks as COVID-19 case numbers continue to dwindle. Big Island Now.

Big Island retail businesses allowed to reopen on Thursday. On the Big Island Mayor Harry Kim issued COVID-19 Emergency Rule 4 on Wednesday expanding on the Governor's newest proclamation. KITV4.

FULL TEXT: Mayor Kim’s COVID-19 Emergency Rule Number 4. The day after Governor David Ige replaced his "stay-at-home" order with a “safer-at-home” order, Hawaiʻi County Mayor signed his own set of new emergency rules. Big Island Video News.

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Some parks reopen as restrictions ease. Several state and county parks around the island have reopened as restrictions on outdoor activities are gradually relaxed. Tribune-Herald.

Spring delivery: Monk seal born on West Hawaii beach. For a third straight year, a Hawaiian monk seal has been pupped on West Hawaii’s shores, officials confirmed Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui retail stores to reopen Monday, Mayor Michael Victorino announces. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino has announced that retail stores — including those in malls — in the county will be allowed to reopen Monday as long as they follow social distancing guidelines. Star-Advertiser.

Retail at Shopping Malls on Maui to Open on Monday, May 11. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino provides his daily update on COVID-19 response in Maui County and offers some clarification on the Governor’s latest “Safer-at-Home” order for phased reopening of businesses in Hawaiʻi. Maui Now.

Retail store given green light to open on May 11 in Maui County. Mayor Michael Victorino announced that retail stores and retail stores in shopping malls will be allowed to reopen as long as they follow physical distancing requirements, starting Monday, May 11, in Maui County. KHON2.

Victorino mulling whether to follow Ige’s lead on malls. 6-foot distancing, masks for staff, customers among rules considered. Maui News.

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Part of Mākena State Park and Polipoli Springs Open for Hiking and Exercise, But Not Gatherings. The DLNR Division of State Parks is re-opening select parks and monuments across the state with an emphasis on social distancing and exercise, and continued restrictions on gatherings of any sort. Maui Now.

Joint effort on Maui produces 40 ventilators for COVID-19 response. A joint effort involving Maui County and tech companies has led to the production of 40 bridge ventilators to help aid health care providers in their COVID-19 response. Star-Advertiser.

Emergency Ventilators Produced on Maui for COVID-19 Response Unveiled. Newly manufactured emergency ventilators produced on Maui by HNu Photonics to help increase Maui County’s emergency healthcare capacity amid the COVID-19 pandemic, were unveiled today by Maui Mayor Michael Victorino. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua'i County mayor announces retail stores set to reopen Thursday. Kaua'i County Mayor Derek Kawakami laid out the type of services allowed to reopen. KITV4.

Some state parks were reopened Wednesday for day beach use or hiking, with restrictions on “gatherings of any sort” according to a news release from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. On Kauai, the state parks that remain closed are Polihale State Park, which is closed for road repairs, Kalalau Trail beyond Hanakapiai Valley and the Wailua River State Park – though the river access for paddling is allowed at the Kaumuali‘i section of the river. Garden Island.

Some local businesses open up. Many businesses are opening their doors today, thanks to Governor David Ige’s seventh proclamation relating to COVID-19.  Garden Island.

Dr. Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg’s Chan Zuckerberg Kaua‘i Community Fund of Hawai‘i Community Foundation has provided a second grant to help Kaua‘i residents suffering financially from the COVID-19 situation. Garden Island.

Ige's 7th proclamation reopens some malls, shopping centers; Honolulu and Maui mayors disagree; health experts say it's too soon; Young Bros. curtails shipping, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige in May 5, 2020, Facebook live press conference

Read the full text of Gov. David Ige's 7th Supplemental Emergency Proclamation HERE.

Ige loosens restrictions with ‘safer-at-home’ proclamation. More Hawaii businesses will be permitted to reopen Thursday as per a new emergency proclamation from Gov. David Ige. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. Ige announces phase 1 of re-opening businesses across Hawaii. After another day that saw new positive COVID-19 cases in the single digits, Governor David Ige held a news conference to announce his 7th Supplemental Emergency Proclamation, which initiates phase 1 of re-opening Hawaii businesses across the state starting May 7th. KHON2.


Hawaii shopping malls among businesses allowed to reopen. More than two weeks of single-digit daily new cases of coronavirus is allowing Hawaii to take the next step in reopening the state’s economy, Gov. David Ige said Tuesday in announcing more businesses that will be allowed to operate. Associated Press.

First Phase Of Hawaii Reopening Begins May 7. Governor David Ige has signed the 7th Supplemental Emergency Proclamation, announcing Phase 1 of opening businesses and activities. Big Island Video News.


Hawai‘i Economy to Begin Reopening Thursday. People and businesses in Hawai‘i will operate a little more freely starting May 7, as Gov. David Ige on Tuesday announced phase one of the state’s economic reopening. Big Island Now.

State says retailers on Oahu, Maui won’t be allowed to reopen this week as governor announced. In a major communications fumble, the Governor’s Office on Tuesday night said that retailers would not be allowed to reopen on Oahu and Maui this week as the governor said earlier in the day. Hawaii News Now.


Governor Ige delays reopening of retail businesses on O'ahu. Governor Ige signed a 7th supplementary emergency proclamation on Tuesday that authorizes the first group of businesses to re-open since the COVID-19 pandemic. KITV4.

Some Hawaii Businesses Including Malls Will Reopen By Thursday. However, Oahu’s retail and repair establishments won’t reopen until May 15, and malls will remain closed on Maui for now. Civil Beat.

Slowly reopening. Ige’s seventh supplementary emergency proclamation to cope with the threat of the new coronavirus will allow state residents to leave home to shop at the newly reopened “low risk” businesses starting Thursday, but retail sales will not begin on Oahu until May 15. Star-Advertiser.


Governor David Ige Unveils 7th Supplemental Proclamation. Governor David Ige today unveils his 7th Supplemental Emergency Proclamation relating to COVID-19, announcing Phase 1 of opening businesses and activities. Maui Now.

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Health experts say it’s too soon to reopen. Health experts say it is too early for Hawaii to reopen businesses, arguing that the state does not have a sufficient public health workforce to identify new coronavirus cases, trace contacts and ensure those infected are isolated to stop the spread of the disease. Star-Advertiser.

Head of State Emergency Response Says Health Department Dragging Feet On Expanding Contact Tracing. Contact tracing is universally regarded as critical in safely relaxing pandemic-induced lockdowns. But Hawaii officials publicly disagree over how much tracing capacity is needed. Hawaii Public Radio.


Antibody tests for COVID-19 have flooded the market. Some are more reliable than others. The COVID-19 swab test tells you if you’re currently infected with the virus. But antibody tests, now becoming more widely available, can tell you if you’ve already had the infection. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii’s coronavirus cases rise by 4 to a total of 625. Hawaii’s tally of coronavirus cases has risen to 625, up four from Monday, the state Department of Health announced today. Star-Advertiser.


Four New COVID-19 Infections, Including Three On Oahu. Four new infections were confirmed by the Department of Health on Tuesday, including three on Oahu and one Hawaii resident on the mainland. Civil Beat.

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Hawaii, Other States With Few Virus Cases Get Big Share Of Relief Aid. An Associated Press analysis showed Hawaii got about $2 million for each coranavirus case in the state, while hard-hit New York got $24,000 per case. Associated Press.

Study: Hawaii ranked strictest state for COVID-19 rules. Hawaii has one of the lowest infection rates from COVID-19, and our flattening the curve might be in part due to some of the measures put in place to slow the spread of the virus. KITV4.

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PUC approves temporary Young Brothers barge schedule change. The state Public Utilities Commission on Monday approved a request from Young Brothers to temporarily reduce its weekly barge schedules for Hawaii and Maui counties. Tribune-Herald.

How An Antiquated IT System Failed Thousands Of Hawaii’s Unemployed. The nearly quarter of a million unemployment insurance applications that Hawaii has received during the COVID-19 pandemic are being processed on a government mainframe that was installed in the early 1980s, back when Pac-Man was a cutting-edge video game. Civil Beat.

Attorney general, prosecutors want inmate releases halted. State Attorney General Clare Connors and three of the state’s four county prosecutors want the Hawaii Supreme Court and Special Master Daniel Foley to halt or at least pause a court- mandated push to release inmates from Hawaii’s correctional facilities, an order designed to reduce the potential spread of the new coronavirus at the historically overcrowded jail and prisons. Star-Advertiser.

Prosecutors raise alarms about hundreds of offenders released amid pandemic. In the last two months, state prisons have reduced their populations by nearly 38% — all to socially distance inmates despite there being zero positive cases in any state correctional facility. Hawaii News Now.


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Councilwoman: State should require visitors to prove they’ve tested negative for coronavirus. A Honolulu City Councilwoman is calling on the state to have more safeguards in place before lifting a mandatory quarantine for visitors and restarting the tourism industry. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Councilwoman provides ideas to re-opening Hawaii in a resolution. Councilwoman Heidi Tsuneyoshi looks at 3 areas where she says we need to do a better job in addressing. One of them is restarting the visitor industry. KHON2.

State officials working on new plans to track visitors as Hawaii sees increase in arrivals. Despite Hawaii’s mandatory, 14-day quarantine for all incoming travelers, the state has seen an uptick in visitors over the last few days. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii visitor arrivals climb to highest since start of coronavirus quarantine. More out-of-state passengers came to Hawaii on Monday than any day since the start of March tourism lockdowns. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaiian Airlines reports $144M loss in first quarter, warns more economic pain ahead. Hawaiian Airlines revealed Tuesday how hard the pandemic has hurt their bottom line. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines still bleeding despite CARES Act and says it can’t withstand the severity indefinitely. Tens of millions of dollars in federal government support wasn’t enough to prevent Hawaiian Airlines from suffering a staggering first-quarter loss as COVID-19 fears and containment policies zeroed out travel demand. Star-Advertiser.

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Preschoolers Adjust to Distance Learning But Teachers Worry About Loss of Social Interaction. Hawaii’s public preschoolers have not had in-person classes since mid-March due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Hawaii Public Radio.

Private Schools May Suffer As Cash-Strapped Families Can’t Afford Tuition. Some schools are offering more financial aid to try and help families who are feeling the economic brunt of the coronavirus pandemic. Civil Beat.

Workers are shocked after money Meadow Gold promised to pay is deposited, then withdrawn from their accounts. Former Meadow Gold employees said money the company promised to pay them was deposited in their accounts, then taken back without notice. KHON2.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell discusses guidelines for reopening Oahu retail businesses. Mayor Kirk Caldwell said he supports the reopening of retail businesses in the city on Thursday, despite sending a proposal to Gov. David Ige’s office to reopen retail businesses on Oahu on May 15. Star-Advertiser.

Retailers are happy, but many might not open as soon as Thursday. Gov. David Ige gave some retailers the green light to open on Thursday, but don’t be surprised if your favorite store isn’t ready to push open those doors just yet. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Council Can Meet By Video, But Not The Public. Council members can video conference in. Citizens have to put comments in writing or show up in person. Civil Beat.

UH chooses company to provide campus housing. The university has entered into a pre-closing agreement with Greystar Real Estate Partners to provide on-campus housing for graduate students and faculty members. KHON2.

Lifeguards are back on the beach with new strategies in dealing with COVID-19. On Tuesday the broad white sands of Queen’s Beach, stretching from lifeguard Tower 2-E to the Kapahulu Groin, were mostly empty in the midafternoon heat. Star-Advertiser.


Hawaii Island

Kim releases revised $585M budget. Facing an uncertain economy amid the coronavirus pandemic, Mayor Harry Kim has lopped $40.8 million off the preliminary budget he presented earlier this year. West Hawaii Today.

Roth: Campaign social media pages spoofed. Hawaii County Prosecutor Mitch Roth, who is running for Big Island mayor, said Tuesday his campaign’s Facebook and Instagram accounts have been spoofed. Tribune-Herald.


Maui

Maui Woman Released After Month-Long Battle with COVID-19. A patient on Maui who was diagnosed with COVID-19 over a month ago and had been on a ventilator, was greeted with a celebratory exit from hospital staff who lined the halls upon her departure today. Maui Now.

Coronavirus survivor’s departure celebrated. Talilotu Carlson beat the coronavirus. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai’s curfew expires Wednesday. Kauai’s nightly curfew is set to expire Wednesday. Mayor Derek Kawakami said Tuesday that Kauai has no active cases. KHON2.

Easing restrictions. Both Gov. David Ige and Mayor Derek Kawakami announced coming relaxed restrictions on Tuesday, with Kawakami canceling the overnight Kaua‘i curfew and Ige announcing a list of businesses that can reopen on Thursday. Garden Island.

Approaching delivery differently. Personal-shopping and grocery-delivery companies were in business on Kaua‘i years before COVID-19 countermeasures were put in place on the island, but now two of those companies are delivering almost exclusively to Kaua‘i residents in quarantine, or those following stay-at-home orders. Garden Island.