News from January 2025


Hawaii allocates $6.3M for tourism recovery amid wildfire impacts

Governor Josh Green has allocated $6.3 million to the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) for a tourism recovery campaign.


Gerber recalls teething sticks over choking risk; Hawaii health officials alert public

The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) Food and Drug Branch (FDB) has issued a public alert regarding the recall and discontinuation of Gerber brand Soothe N Chew Teething Sticks.


Attorneys general criticize Trump over DEIA executive orders

Attorney General Anne Lopez, along with attorneys general from 12 other states, has released a joint statement in response to President Trump's recent executive orders aimed at dismantling diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and diversity, equity,...


DLNR conducts post-storm cleanup across Hawaiian waters

The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Boating Division is actively involved in post-storm cleanup efforts following recent weather events.


Federal judge issues temporary restraining order against Trump's funding freeze

Attorney General Anne Lopez has announced a preliminary victory in the lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump's Office of Management & Budget memo, which aimed to freeze federal grants and loans.


Hirono questions army secretary nominee on land leases and readiness impacts

U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, questioned Daniel Driscoll, President Trump's nominee for Secretary of the Army, during his confirmation hearing.


Senators reintroduce bill aimed at full funding for education programs

U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono, alongside Senator Chris Van Hollen, Representative Susie Lee, and 15 other colleagues, has reintroduced the Keep Our Promise to America’s Children and Teachers (PACT) Act.


Hirono and Takano push for Congressional Gold Medal honoring Fred Korematsu

U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono and U.S. Representative Mark Takano have introduced a bill to award Fred Korematsu the Congressional Gold Medal posthumously.


Hirono questions Trump's FBI nominee over misinformation and loyalty concerns

U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono, a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, questioned Kash Patel, President Trump's nominee for FBI Director, during his confirmation hearing.


Hawaii sees steady growth in tourism industry for December

The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) has reported an increase in visitor numbers to the Hawaiian Islands for December 2024.


Acting Governor Luke signs emergency proclamation amid Hawaii's weather threat

Acting Governor Sylvia Luke has signed an emergency proclamation in response to a low-pressure weather system impacting the Hawaiian Islands.


Honolulu sees significant rise in retail egg prices over three years

The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) has published new data on retail egg prices in Honolulu, showing significant changes between December 2021 and 2024.


Hirono questions Loeffler on loyalty to Trump during SBA confirmation hearing

U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono questioned Kelly Loeffler, President Trump's nominee for Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA), during a confirmation hearing in Washington, D.C. Senator Hirono focused on Ms.


Courthouses in Hawaii close due to severe weather

The Keahuolū Courthouse in Kailua-Kona and the South Kohala District Court in Waimea are closed for the rest of the day.


Hirono criticizes removal of Milley's security detail by Defense Secretary

Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono expressed her disapproval of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's decision to revoke the security detail and clearance for retired General Mark Milley.


Hawaiʻi ranks eighth healthiest state but faces economic challenges

Hawaiʻi has been recognized as the eighth healthiest state in the United States, according to the America’s Health Rankings 2024 Annual Report.


Native American $1 coin honors Mary Kawena Pukui's cultural contributions

U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono has expressed her approval of the U.S. Mint's 2025 Native American $1 Coin, which features Mary Kawena Pukui.


Hawai‘i DCCA emphasizes emergency preparedness amid rising weather events

The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) in Hawai‘i is calling on residents and business owners to focus on emergency preparedness.


Hawaii to conduct emergency alert system and siren test on February 3

The monthly test of the all-hazard Statewide Outdoor Warning Siren System is set for Monday, February 3, 2025, at 11:45 a.m. in Honolulu.


Authorities tackle Ala Wai Canal cleanup ahead of more rain

The Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR) is collaborating with the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) and the City and County of Honolulu to clear mud and debris from the Ala Wai Canal after heavy weekend rains.