Latest News from Big Island Times

HONOLULU — Medicare loses an estimated $60 billion per year to false claims. Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) Hawai‘i is addressing this issue by hosting Medicare Fraud Prevention Week from June 3-9.

Hawaiian Home Lands face potential loss of communication services

Up to 1,500 households on Hawaiian Home Lands are facing a sudden loss of phone and internet service provided by Sandwich Isles Communications (SIC). The private company announced in an email to customers on May 30 that it would end its service just two days later, on June 1. Affected parties are located throughout the state, including many households in remote communities.

Utility assistance programs in Hawai‘i offer relief amid rising summer bills

May 31, 2024

Hirono introduces bill aiming at improving healthcare affordability for native hawaiian veterans

On May 31, 2024, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, convened a roundtable with Native Hawaiian veterans in Honolulu to discuss their healthcare priorities and access issues. During the event, she announced the introduction of the Parity for Native Hawaiian Veterans Act, legislation co-sponsored by Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Representatives Jill Tokuda (D-HI) and Ed Case (D-HI). The bill aims to improve healthcare affordability for Native Hawaiian veterans by eliminating copays for services received through the...

Governor Green announces multiple judicial appointments and key board nominations

Governor Green has announced four judicial appointments, the appointment of a new Deputy Director for the Department of Human Resources Development (DHRD), and several other key positions on state boards and commissions.

Governor Green signs bills enhancing condo management and clean energy access

By Big Island Times | May 30, 2024

Governor Josh Green has signed a series of bills aimed at addressing various issues related to condominiums in Hawai‘i. The legislation includes measures on management, clean energy, and financing.

DOH conditionally approves Red Hill air quality monitoring plan

By Big Island Times | May 30, 2024

HONOLULU – The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) has conditionally approved the Navy Closure Task Force – Red Hill (NCTF-RH) Air Quality Monitoring (AQM) Plan. This plan will be implemented during the cleaning and venting of the primary tanks at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility. DOH utilized its authority under a May 2022 Emergency Order to mandate that the Navy develop a comprehensive Tank Cleaning Ventilation Air Quality Monitoring Plan to protect public health.

Hawai'i schedules statewide emergency alert system test for June

By Big Island Times | May 30, 2024

The monthly test of the all-hazard Statewide Outdoor Warning Siren System is scheduled for Monday, June 3, 2024, at 11:45 a.m. The siren test will be coordinated with a test of the Live Audio Broadcast segment of the Emergency Alert System.

DLIR launches three new tools for unemployment insurance claimants

The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) has introduced three new tools aimed at simplifying the unemployment insurance claims process. According to DLIR Director Jade T. Butay, these tools are part of a broader effort to improve the current system while developing a new platform to replace the existing mainframe application.

Gov. Green extends registration deadline for One 'Ohana Fund

Governor Green has announced a second deadline extension for the One ‘Ohana Fund, allowing more time for individuals to register for compensation. Registration applications can be submitted online at www.mauicompensationfund.com, which also provides answers to frequently asked questions and additional information.

Hawai‘i announces summer 2024 SUN Bucks benefits for school-aged children

The Department of Human Services (DHS) in collaboration with the Hawai‘i Department of Education will provide benefits under the SUN Bucks program for school-aged children during summer 2024. The initiative aims to ensure access to nutritious meals when schools are closed.

Mālama ‘Ohana Working Group announces schedule for community listening sessions

The Mālama ‘Ohana Working Group (MOWG), established during the 2023 legislative session and signed into law as Act 86 by Governor Josh Green, M.D., on June 14, 2023, has announced its schedule for listening sessions. The concept of the working group originated within the Nā Kama a Hāloa Network, which comprises over 30 organizations dedicated to improving the lives of Native Hawaiian keiki and ʻohana, particularly those over-represented in the state’s child welfare system.

Hawaiʻi prepares to host 13th Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture

Hawaiʻi is set to host the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture (FestPAC) from June 6 to June 16, 2024. The event will commence with an opening ceremony at the Stan Sheriff Center, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, which will be televised and livestreamed on Hawai‘i News Now.

Hawai'i DOH reports rising COVID-19 activity in latest dashboard

COVID-19 activity is on the rise, according to a new Respiratory Disease Activity dashboard released by the Hawai‘i State Department of Health (DOH).

Three men cited for multiple fishing violations at Ahihi-Kinau reserve

Three men have been cited for fishing violations at the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve (NAR) on May 27, 2024. The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) reported that the men were found in possession of a total of 78 different fish, some of which were under the legal size limits.

Governor signs bills to address housing challenges in Hawai‘i