Emma Caires
UH Legislative News InternEmma Caires is the Legislative News Intern during her final semester at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, where she majors in journalism and minors in communicology. With strong familial ties to Kāneʻohe, she loves being able to report on things that hit close to home, both politically and personally.
Emma started her college career at De Anza College in the Bay Area, California, where she was editor-in-chief for the student publication, La Voz. In her free time, she can be found out in nature, probably meditating, doing yoga, or anything that makes her feel grounded again.
Contact Emma at ecaires@hawaiipublicradio.org
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Lawmakers are considering a measure that would redefine a reported hate crime as any reported incident that might be motivated by bias or prejudice. Currently, it only gets reported if it results in a criminal charge. -
Under the bill, if the state Department of Land and Natural Resources cannot complete a project review within 60 days, the project would be passed onto a third party chosen by the State Historic Preservation Division. -
Families with 3- or 4-year-olds born between Aug. 1, 2020, and July 31, 2022, can now apply for the state program funding early education to families in need. -
Several bills this legislative session opt for either universal free breakfast and lunch, or for free meals for students who are currently eligible for reduced-pricing. But for past sessions, cost has been the biggest obstacle. Emma Caires, HPR's legislative news intern, has more. -
Lawmakers are considering a bill that would protect victims of sex trafficking from criminal charges if they seek help from law enforcement or medical assistance. -
The state wants to serve 30% locally sourced food in public schools by 2030, but the House Education Committee is worried that the goal may be out of reach. -
House Bill 1486 states that loitering within 20 feet of a bus stop will be considered a disorderly conduct offense. The bill allows law enforcement officers to immediately remove anyone who violates this order. -
Sens. Troy Hashimoto and Donna Mercado Kim acknowledged that the transition period between University of Hawaiʻi presidents has caused some confusion and miscommunication. -
The state House of Representatives majority caucus will focus on preparing keiki for school, combating high costs of living and food insecurity across the state. They also shared that natural resource preservation and food insecurity are also priorities.
