Latest News from Big Island Times

The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA), along with 47 state financial regulatory agencies, has taken action against Block, Inc. for violations related to the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and anti-money laundering (AML) laws.

Hawai‘i DOH detects low levels of H5 avian flu in Kauaʻi wastewater

The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) State Laboratories Division has identified traces of H5 avian influenza in wastewater samples from the Līhuʻe Wastewater Treatment Plant on Kauaʻi.

Two inmates returned to custody; third still missing from Hawaii correctional center

Inmate Kawai J. Pomroy, who was one of three individuals that left the Hawaiʻi Community Correctional Center (HCCC) Hale Nani site without permission in December 2024, has been returned to custody.

Senator Hirono questions energy secretary nominee Chris Wright on wildfire resilience

In a recent confirmation hearing, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) questioned Chris Wright, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Energy, on several critical issues.

Preschool Open Doors application deadline set for January

The Department of Human Services (DHS) in Honolulu is currently accepting applications for the Preschool Open Doors program for the 2024-2025 school year.

Hirono questions Trump's AG nominee on DOJ independence and election results

U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono questioned Pam Bondi, President-elect Trump's nominee for Attorney General, during a confirmation hearing in Washington, D.C. Senator Hirono expressed concerns about Ms.

Low levels of bird flu detected in Kauaʻi wastewater samples

The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) State Laboratories Division has identified traces of H5 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in wastewater samples from the Līhuʻe Wastewater Treatment Plant on Kauaʻi.

Community group leads first non-government funded improvement at Hā‘ena State Park

A new comfort station is set to be constructed at Hā‘ena State Park, marking the first instance where a nonprofit community group has spearheaded both the design and funding of a capital improvement project in a state park.

Hirono proposes changes to Laken Riley Act targeting family separation and state lawsuits

U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono, a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has introduced five amendments to the Laken Riley Act (S.5).

Hirono questions defense nominee Pete Hegseth on conduct and constitutional loyalty

By Big Island Times | Jan 14, 2025

U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono questioned Pete Hegseth, President-elect Trump's nominee for Secretary of Defense, on his suitability for the role during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing.

Hirono and Tokuda introduce bill targeting rapid ohia death in Hawaii

By Big Island Times | Jan 13, 2025

U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono and U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda have introduced new legislation aimed at combating the spread of Rapid Ohia Death (ROD) in Hawaii.

Attorney General launches anti-human trafficking webpage with awareness month events

The Department of the Attorney General has launched a new webpage dedicated to its Human Trafficking Prevention Program.

Hawaii declares 2025 as "Year of Our Community Forests

At a ceremony held today, Governor Josh Green declared 2025 as the "Year of Our Community Forests."

Second Circuit seeks applicants for independent grand jury counsel in Maui County

The Circuit Court of the Second Circuit, which includes Maui, Molokaʻi, and Lānaʻi, is currently seeking applicants for the position of independent grand jury counsel.

Hirono nominates 39 Hawaii students for United States Service Academies