Ron Kouchi

Hawaiʻi's 2024 legislative session is officially underway. The priority list clearly starts on Maui — but includes issues around the islands such as water management, sustainability, economic development and affordable housing. HPR's government and politics reporter Ashley Mizuo has more.

After consultation, the state Legislature will not override any bills or line items that Gov. Josh Green intends to veto. In a statement Friday, Senate President Ron Kouchi of Kaua'i said the governor still needs to address some administrative rules contained in the vetoes.

Senate President Ron Kouchi took to the chamber floor yesterday to address reports of conflict among caucus members. At issue is Scott Glenn’s nomination to lead the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development.

Gov. Josh Green gave his inaugural State of the State address 49 days into his term, highlighting his plan to tackle Hawaiʻi's high cost of living. HPR’s Sabrina Bodon shares the reaction of some state lawmakers.

Senate President Ron Kouchi delivered his opening remarks on the session's priorities to tax visitors at state parks, boost small businesses, cooperate with the Governor and diversify the state's economy off of tourism.

Finding ways to lessen the state's cost of living has been on the mind of lawmakers as the state Legislature's 32nd session reconvened Wednesday. The House and Senate opened with the festivities and open doors reminiscent of pre-pandemic days, with guests and constituents from across the islands traveling to Honolulu. HPR's Sabrina Bodon reports.

The leaders of the two chambers of the Hawaiʻi Legislature are at odds over reopening the state Capitol. HPR’s Scott Kim has more.

State lawmakers last week passed amendments to several bills as requested by Gov. David Ige and overrode a handful of his vetoes, including one that overhauls how the state funds the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority and allocates tourism tax revenue to the four counties.

A company that Hawaii Senate President Ronald Kouchi owns shares in and is employed by received a small business coronavirus relief loan from the U.S.…

Leadership changes in the state senate will have a big impact on the next legislative session. The new president of the senate, Ron Kouchi, is an unusual…