State Legislature

The new law establishes safeguards for these ponds and requires new ones to meet strict safety regulations before they are built. It also requires signage clearly indicating that swimming is not allowed, enclosed fencing, and flotation devices to be installed around or near each pond.

The state has started to accept applications for hurricane insurance from Condominium and Townhouse Associations that have been unable to secure full coverage on the regulated market. HPR's Ashley Mizuo reports on the efforts to stabilize property insurance in Hawaiʻi.

In a Friday bill-signing ceremony, Gov. Josh Green enacted Act 242, or House Bill 496, the vehicle for the new māmaki labeling rules. The law went into effect Tuesday.

Gov. Josh Green signed the state's $40 billion two-year budget into law on Monday. But he reduced it by about $110 million. Green notified lawmakers in June that these cuts were likely as the state's revenue projections dropped since the legislative session came to a close.

Gov. Josh Green signed various agriculture and biosecurity bills into law, including one that the governor had previously intended to veto.

Gov. Josh Green has signed into law several bills related to the state Judiciary, including a $400 million budget and a permanent program to help rehabilitate women in the criminal justice system.

The state's Preschool Open Doors program now has expanded eligibility thresholds, offering tuition subsidies to more families.

State lawmakers on Monday grilled HTA for its lack of progress to improve the state's tourism industry, its handling of tourism-related contracts and internal operations. This comes after Gov. Josh Green reportedly plans on asking all the members of the board to resign.

HPR's government reporter Ashley Mizuo spoke with Chief Justice Recktenwald about these judicial wins and his retirement.

The new chair of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food Systems said his focus will be on legislation addressing biosecurity and food security in the state. Rep. Cory Chun was appointed as the committee chair following recent changes in House leadership.