Last week, nine high school students participating in the Neighbor Island Medical Scholars Program flew to Oʻahu to attend the Medical Diagnosis and Treatment program — a weeklong, hands-on experience at the John A. Burns School of Medicine.

Following the program, students return to their home islands to shadow local Kaiser Permanente physicians and other health care partners in their communities, gaining real-world exposure to clinical care while applying what they’ve learned in the classroom.

“Having these bright and motivated students on our campus last week was incredibly rewarding,” said Dr. Jill Omori, director of the Office of Medical Education. “For the students to have the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned at Medical Diagnosis and Treatment in a real clinical setting with physicians from Kaiser Permanente is truly invaluable in nurturing their growth and commitment to health care careers.”

The Neighbor Island Medical Scholars Program aims to inspire local students to pursue careers in medicine and return home to care for their communities. By removing financial and geographical barriers and creating meaningful learning experiences, the School of Medicine and Kaiser Permanente cultivate a homegrown workforce that reflects Hawaiʻi’s diversity and values.

“Our partnership with the John A. Burns School of Medicine is one of the most meaningful ways we can support the development of future physicians — especially those from the neighbor islands,” said Dr. John Yang, president and medical director of Hawaiʻi Permanente Medical Group. “When students feel connected to their home communities and a deep sense of kuleana to give back, they’re more likely to return and serve where they’re needed most. That’s one of the ways we can address the physician shortage across Hawaiʻi.”

Nea Portillo, a student at Kīhei Charter School on Maui, expressed her gratitude to the John A. Burns School of Medicine, Kaiser Permanente, and all the partners that made this program possible.

“After seeing how my community was impacted by the Maui wildfires and knowing that there is a great need for more people to serve in our health care industry, it makes me want to step up and help fill a role,” Portillo said. “That way, if our community is ever in a crisis moment in the future, I want to be able to help take care of our community.”

This is the first year Kaiser Permanente has joined the three-year-old Neighbor Island Medical Scholars Program as a partner, and the addition has proven invaluable for some students interested in the medical field.

Colten Clarke, a student at Kealakehe High School in Kona, was ecstatic to experience how physicians use what they learned in school in their daily lives.

“I love getting to actually do what I’m learning in school, what I’m interested in, and getting awesome hands-on experience,” Clarke said. “I love all the labs we’re doing about anatomy and learning more about patient encounters. I can’t express how awesome it is that I’m getting to do what I want to do at only 16 years old.”

But within less than an hour, the National Weather Service Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said there was no threat and canceled the watch.

The warning center in Honolulu issued the tsunami watch for Hawai‘i following what at first was recorded as a 7.5-magnitude earthquake reported at 8:49 p.m. located 89.5 miles east of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Russia.

Forecasters issued the watch because available data at the time indicated there might be the threat of a possible destructive tsunami generated by the quake off the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia, that could impact coastal areas even far away from its epicenter.

Further updates were planned for every hour — or as conditions warranted — until the threat passed.

If one of the terrible series of large ocean waves was heading toward Hawai‘i, the earliest estimated time of arrival would have been about 5 hours and 40 minutes after the watch was issued, at 2:43 a.m. July 20.

It took forecasters less than an hour, however, to pour over the data and determine whether there was a tsunami threat to the islands.

Pacific Tsunami Warning Center sent out a new notification at 9:42 p.m. declaring the tsunami watch canceled and with a slightly downgraded magnitude for the earthquake of 7.4.

“Based on all available data, there is no tsunami threat to the state of Hawai‘i,” the agency said in its later notification. “This will be the final message issued for this event unless additional data are received.”

After people began to realize there no longer was a threat, a giant sigh of relief washed over social media, with many thanking God or “the Lord” and saying amen for the good news. There was at least one “Hallelujah.”

“[Watch] has been cancelled,” replied Judy Kelley to her own post in the Everything Kaua‘i group on Facebook. “Relax. Enjoy your Mai Tai.”

U.S. Geological Survey explained that the 7.4-magnitude quake occurred as the result of reverse faulting at a depth of about 12 miles.

At the location of this earthquake, the Pacific plate is moving west-northwest with respect to the North America plate at about 3 inches per year.

Note: The North America plate extends westward beyond the North American continent. The earthquake’s location and sense of motion is consistent with the faulting on the subduction zone plate interface of the Kuril-Kamchatka Arc.

While commonly plotted as points on maps, earthquakes of this size are more appropriately described as slips over a larger fault area.

The Kuril-Kamchatka arc has frequent moderate to large earthquakes and has hosted 29 additional 6.5-magnitude or above events within about 155 miles of the July 19 earthquake throughout the preceding century.

A magnitude-9 Kamchatka earthquake in November 1952 resulted in a destructive Pacific-wide tsunami that reached the shores of Hawai‘i, causing damage on the Big Island and elsewhere.

Information from University of Washington College of the Environment Department of Earth and Space Sciences shows tsunami waves destroyed boats, knocked down telephone lines, destroyed piers, scoured beaches and flooded lawns in 1952.

A small bridge connecting Cocoanut Island to the shore at Hilo Bay was destroyed by a wave when it was lifted off its foundation and smashed down when water swept in with a runup of 12 feet.

Elsewhere around Hilo Bay — which recorded the highest levels of runup from the 1952 tsunami generated by the magnitude-9 Kamchatka quake — water levels could have gotten as high as 11.5 feet. The water level rose to 11 feet at Reed’s Bay.

The July 19 temblor struck roughly 45 miles northeast from the 1952 quake’s epicenter.

Some on social media said it’s still important to be vigilant regardless if there is no longer a threat of tsunami waves striking Hawai‘i shores.

“Just FYI,” replied Rob Jr. See to a Facebook post by Dane DuPont in the Hawai‘i Tracker group letting people know the tsunami watch was canceled. “I’ve been through a lot of watches and warnings. The surge still exists. I’ve seen many pulled out to sea because of this. Stay vigilant. Don’t be stupid and think you’re invincible while picking ʻopihi or diving during this time.”

A member of a private Hawaiian Paradise Park group on Facebook informed people the watch was canceled, but encouraged everyone to “feel free to sleep with surfboard tonite for extra precaution.”

The U.S. Geological Survey showed at least an additional nine earthquakes, aftershocks, of magnitude-5 or above — one magnitude-6.6 and another magnitude 6.7 — had followed the 7.4-magnitude monster that caused the tsunami excitement.

Adding in quakes of magnitude-4 or above, there were 15 more strong shakers before this story was published.

Visit the National Weather Service Honolulu forecast office website or call the automated weather line at 808-245-6001 for weather updates

Visit the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center website for additional tsunami information.

It’s timing is not a coincidence. Much of the state is more than parched, including the Big Island, where nearly 90% of the island is abnormally dry or experiencing some level of drought. 

That trend is expected to persist and even worsen for some areas of the islands during the next few months, especially the hottest — and possibly driest — months of summer August and September, increasing ignition risk for wildfires.

“Our goal is simple — stop wildfires before they become disasters,” Hawai‘i National Guard Commander-in-Chief Green said in an announcement for his emergency proclamation, calling the move a proactive step that will “help save lives, protect property and strengthen our state’s overall emergency response.”

Operation Hoʻopauahi — which means “to extinguish fire” in Hawaiian — will initially keep a Hawaiʻi Army National Guard CH-47F Chinook helicopter crew mobilized to respond as soon as the point of wildfire ignition.

The copter and its crew will be immediately dispatched to provide aerial firefighting support in any of the state’s counties, increasing capacity to contain and extinguish a fire in its early stage.

“This authorization and Operation Hoʻopauahi also will allow us to quickly and effectively activate other Hawaiʻi National Guard resources such as evacuation teams, traffic control and security missions,” added Hawaiʻi Adjutant General Brig. Gen. Stephen F. Logan in the governor’s announcement. “This is an opportunity where the Guard can help to enable a safe, secure and thriving state.”

The Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency and Hawaiʻi National Guard are consistently in communication with county emergency managers and stand ready to offer support when needed.

Green’s latest emergency proclamation comes on the heels of multiple wildfires that ignited during the first half of July throughout Hawaiʻi, including two on O’ahu that required evacuations; one of which also resulted in the death of a 94-year-old woman, who suffered smoke inhalation and second-degree burns.

It’s also a pre-emptive strike to make sure the state is ready to respond, especially since weather outlooks for the next few months agree there is significant danger of wildfire in much of the state, especially Oʻahu, Maui and the Big Island.

The National Interagency Coordination Center monthly/seasonal outlook issued July 1 for the months of July through October — compiled using data and information from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Weather Service and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park — projects above normal significant fire potential, especially in leeward areas of the state, from Oʻahu south through the Big Island.

Average temperatures during the next few months should also generally be above normally, which falls in line with typical Hawaiʻi summer weather as August and September tend to be the hottest months of the season.

Precipitation, on the other hand, looks to be more hit and miss, the outlook says, as impacts from tropical cyclones are expected to be below normal for the next few months, meaning much of the state likely will be drier.

Some modeling, however, does suggest a slightly wetter signal in the northern tier of the islands, such as Kauaʻi.

The National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center concurs, forecasting an increased chance of below normal precipitation through October in already parched parts of the state, but less of a dry signal for Oʻahu and Kauaʻi.

“As of July 15, 2025, the U.S. Drought Monitor shows that approximately 53% of the state is experiencing moderate, severe or extreme drought conditions,” Green’s emergency proclamation says. “An additional 33% of the state is experiencing abnormally dry conditions.”

About 87% of the Big Island is experiencing abnormally dry conditions or some level of drought as of July 15, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, with 56% under moderate to extreme drought.

There’s about 3% of the island in the South Kohala/Hāmākua area that’s most parched, experiencing extreme drought that has persisted for at least a couple of weeks now.

In comparison, about 41% of Kauaʻi is seeing abnormally dry conditions or some level of drought as of this week, with the about 9% of drought-stricken area under moderate drought.

The Climate Prediction Center forecast through October calls for drought to persist in those areas already suffering, with other already abnormally dry places on the Big Island, Maui, Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi worsening into drought conditions.

As the state dries out more and drought expands, so, too, will the amount of fuel available to consume for any wildfire that sparks.

More moisture-deprived vegetation and plants that couldn’t take the stress of drought or dry conditions dying — both drying out even more — will become easy pray for any flames looking for a snack.

“Dry brush is widepread throughout the state,” Green’s proclamation states.

All of those factors together, as well as increasing temperatures during at least the next couple of months bringing more heat to the state — and less rain in the forecast — will only benefit wildfires, turning much of the state into a tinderbox that could go up in flames at any moment.

“Even small wildfires may quickly intensify and expand to threaten entire communities, requiring widespread evacuations and government response,” the emergency proclamation says.

The catastrophic wildfire that destroyed Lahaina 2 years ago in August 2023, killing more than 100 people and causing $5.5 billion in property damages, is one of the deadliest wildfires in U.S. history.

It’s also a powerful reminder about how wildfires are “high-risk threats to the people of Hawaiʻi.”

“Drought and other conditions exist which contribute to an increased risk of severe wildfires, and which constitutes an imminent danger threat of an emergency or disaster throughout the state” Greeen’s proclamation states.

As seen already with the fires earlier this month on Oʻahu and elsewhere in the state, considerable government resources will likely be “required to mitigate these risks and to contain such wildfires as they ignite to protect the life, health and safety of the public.”

Green’s emergency proclamation is in place through Sept. 16.

You can read the full text of the proclamation online.

News reporter Nathan Christophel contributed to this story.

Acidification of waters around the main Hawaiian Islands is expected to follow suit; however, a new study led by University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa oceanographers reveals it will reach unprecedented levels within the next three decades.

That news comes at the same time as the National Marine Fisheries Service announced critical habitat designations for five threatened coral species living in the Pacific Ocean.

The agency’s final rule also protects 92 square miles of marine habitat around American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, the Pacific Remote Island Areas and Hawaiʻi.

Researchers in professor Brian Powell’s laboratory group at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology used advanced, fine-scale computer models to project how ocean chemistry around the main Hawaiian Islands might change during the 21st century.

The extent and timing of the changes varied depending on the amount of carbon added to the atmosphere.

Increased ocean acidification is harmful to marine life, leading to issues such as weakening the shells and skeletons of organisms such as corals and clams, amplifying the effects of existing stressors and threatening ocean-based ecosystems.

Corals are experiencing dramatic global declines because of climate change, ocean acidification, pollution and overfishing.

An estimated 50% of coral reefs worldwide have already been lost to climate change and about one-third of reef-building coral species are at risk of extinction.

“We found that ocean acidification is projected to increase significantly in the surface waters around the main Hawaiian Islands, even if carbon emissions flatline by mid-century in the low emission scenario,” said lead author of the new paper Lucia Hošeková in a release from the university.

The School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology research scientist added that the team found in all nearshore areas, the increases will be “unprecedented compared to what reef organisms have experienced in many thousands of years.”

In the high‐emission scenario, the team found ocean chemistry will become dramatically different from what corals experienced historically, potentially challenging their adaptability. Even in the low‐emission scenario, some changes are inevitable, but less extreme and occur more gradually.

The team also calculated the difference between projected ocean acidification levels and the acidification corals in a given location experienced in recent history.

They discovered that various areas of the Hawaiian Islands could experience acidification differently. For example, windward coastlines consistently exhibited future conditions that deviate more dramatically from what coral reefs experienced in recent history.

“We did not expect future levels of ocean acidification to be so far outside the envelope of natural variations in ocean chemistry that an ecosystem is used to,” said study co-author Tobias Friedrich in the release.

The University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa Department of Oceanography research scientist said this is the first ocean acidification projection specifically for Hawaiian waters to document that.

Previous studies showed that a coral exposed to slightly elevated ocean acidity can acclimatize to those conditions, thereby enhancing the coral’s adaptability.

Researchers remain hopeful, as some organisms have shown signs of adapting to the changing waters.

Data and information provided by the new University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa study helps researchers, conservationists and policymakers understand the future challenges facing Hawai‘i’s coral reefs and provides information for preserving these critical ecosystems for future generations.

The team will continue to investigate the future changes in Hawaiian waters, specifically, heat stress, locations of possible areas where coral could be more sheltered from stress and changes to Hawai‘i’s fisheries.

Powell said the study’s results show potential conditions of acidification corals could experience; however, that extremity varies based on the climate scenario the world follows.

Best case scenario: corals will be impacted, but it could be manageable.

“This is why we continue new research to examine the combined effects of stresses on corals,” he said in the release. “This study is a big first step to examine the totality of changes that will impact corals and other marine organisms and how it varies around the islands.”

Some of the impact is already being felt, but Center for Biological Diversity staff attorney David Derrick was breathing a sigh of relief earlier this week after seeing the National Marine Fisheries Service finally safeguard five threatened Indo-Pacific coral species with critical habitat protections.

“These designations give struggling corals a much-needed fighting chance. Protecting corals’ homes is a crucial step toward reversing the crisis of reef die-offs,” Derrick said in a release announcing the designation. “These ecosystems support ocean biodiversity around the world, and we need to do much more to save such vulnerable species and all the ocean critters that depend on reefs.”

The Pacific coral species covered by the new designations and where they occur in the United States are:

• Acropora globiceps: Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, the Pacific Remote Island Areas, and at Lalo (French Frigate Shoals) in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.
• Acropora retusa: American Samoa and the Pacific Remote Island Areas.
• Acropora speciosa: American Samoa.
• Fimbriaphyllia paradivisa (formerly Euphyllia paradivisa): American Samoa.
• Isopora crateriformis: American Samoa.

The designations follow a March 2023 lawsuit filed by Center for Biological Diversity against the National Marine Fisheries Service for failing to finalize protections for 12 threatened coral species throughout the Caribbean and Pacific, including the five that received habitat designations this week.

All the species were listed under the Endangered Species Act in 2014 but did not receive the critical habitat designation the law requires.

The new officers were assigned to the following jails and prisons in East Hawaiʻi:

• Hawaiʻi Community Correctional Center, jail, downtown Hilo: 7.
• Kulani Correctional Facility, minimum security prison, 20 miles southeast of Hilo on slopes of Mauna Loa: 1.

A graduation ceremony was conducted July 14 at Island of Hawaiʻi YMCA in Hilo.

Hawaiʻi Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Director Tommy Johnson was guoted congratulating the graduates in a state release: “All of these graduates have worked hard to this point and effectively demonstrated humility and teamwork.”

Johnson said they will face situations throughout their careers that will test their character, integrity, commitment, faith and courage of conviction. The challenge is to do what is right.

“In doing so, they will have the greatest impact on public safety and gain the respect and admiration of their peers, supervisors and the public they serve,” the release quotes the director. “I sincerely thank each of the graduates for their service. I thank their [families] and loved ones for their steadfast support.

Keynote speaker Hilo Circuit Court Judge Peter K. Kubota also applauded the graduates.

“You guys are great young men,” Kubota was quoted in the release. “A lot of training, a lot of commitment, a lot of hard work and sacrifices from yourselves and your family members to get you there. All from our beautiful community of Hilo.”

It’s a challenging and “very rewarding career that you’re embarking on,” Kubota added, noting that the new corrections officers join a team throughout the islands that forms the foundation of the state Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

There are 1,140 adult corrections officer positions filled in the state. Another about 380 are vacant.

Graduates of Hawaiʻi Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Basic Corrections Recruit Class 25-03B completed 8 weeks of rigorous training comprised of more than 300 hours of classroom instruction and physical training.

A variety of subjects are taught, including standards of conduct, ethics and professionalism, report writing, interpersonal communications, maintaining security, crisis intervention, security threat groups (gangs), mental health, first aid, use of firearms and self-defense tactics.

All incoming corrections officers also receive field training during their final weeks of training.

Recruits go into facilities to begin their jobs with guidance from training sergeants.

New officer Valuvalu Leiato said he wanted to become a corrections officer to make a positive impact on those in custody and under the care of the Hawaiʻi Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

“You can never judge a book by its cover,” Leiato was quoted in the release. “Like what the judge said, a simple shaka, a simple aloha. That makes a big difference.”

The Visible Identification Standards for Immigration-Based Law Enforcement, or VISIBLE, Act of 2025 would require immigration officers to display clearly visible identification during public enforcement actions.

It is aimed at strengthening oversight, transparency and accountability of immigration enforcement tactics employed by President Donald Trump’s Administration that the senators say have terrorized communities throughout Hawai‘i and nationwide.

“Dangerous individuals are increasingly impersonating federal immigration officials, and yet masked immigration agents continue to grab people off the streets with no visible identification,” Hirono said in a release announcing the new bill. “This legislation is a necessary response to these dangerous, draconian tactics.”

Civil immigration enforcement operations under Trump have increasingly involved U.S. Department of Homeland Security officers engaging with the public while wearing unmarked tactical gear, concealing clothing and face coverings that obscure agency affiliation and personal identity.

Without visible badges, names or insignia, members of the public often have no way to confirm whether they are interacting with legitimate government officials.

Hirono and her colleagues say that lack of transparency endangers public safety, causing widespread confusion and fear — especially in communities already subject to heightened immigration scrutiny.

It also increases operational and safety risks for law enforcement by creating an opportunity for immigration enforcement impersonators and compounding uncertainty in high-stress situations.

Clear, consistent, visible identification helps reduce miscommunication during enforcement encounters, strengthens officer credibility and improves public cooperation — all of which are vital to mission success, the bill’s co-introducers claim.

Specifically, the VISIBLE Act would:

• Require immigration enforcement officers — including Homeland Secuirty personnel such as Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, federal agents detailed to immigration operations and deputized state or local officers — to display clearly legible identification, including their agency name or initials and either their name or badge number, in a manner that remains visible and unobscured by tactical gear or clothing.
• Prohibit non-medical face coverings — such as masks or balaclavas — that obscure identity or facial visibility with exceptions for environmental hazards or covert operations.
• Require Homeland Security to establish disciplinary procedures for violations, report annually to U.S. Congress on compliance and investigate complaints through its Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties.

The legislation does not apply to covert or non-public operations nor does it prohibit face coverings when necessary for officer safety.

It also does not apply to enforcement actions conducted solely under criminal authority.

Additional co-sponsors of the VISIBLE Act are Democratic U.S. Sens. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, Patty Murray of Washington state, Adam Schiff of California, Elissa Slotkin and Gary Peters of Michigan, Tina Smith of Minnesota, Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, Peter Welch of Vermont and Ron Wyden Oregon.

“By bringing much-needed transparency and accountability to immigration enforcement activities, this bill will help protect immigrant communities and all Americans,” Hirono said.

The proposed legislation is endorsed by the American Civil Liberties Union and Public Counsel.

Click here to read the full text of the pending VISIBLE Act.

Hirono, others criticize ICE tactics, ask for info about mask, uniform policies

Introduction of the VISIBLE Act coincides with Hirono signing onto a letter, led by Padilla, to Immigration and Customs Enforcement Acting Director Todd Lyons criticizing his agency for engaging in counterproductive, theatrical enforcement activities — including raids on courthouses and restaurants — and requesting information about its mask and uniform policies.

The lawmakers argue that the tactics are designed to sow fear and chaos; allowing masked, plainclothes officers to engage in public raids creates situations where bad actors can commit crimes while claiming to be Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

Also signing the letter were Blumenthal, Booker, Murray, Schiff, Smith, Van Hollen, Welch, Wyden and their fellow Democratic U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin of Illinois, Mark Kelly of Arizona, Jacky Rosen of Nevada and Raphael Warnock of Georgia.

You can read the letter sent to Lyons by clicking here.

Hirono: Advocating for immigrant communities in Hawai‘i, nationwide

Hirono continues to support comprehensive immigration reform and advocate for immigrant communities in Hawai‘i and nationwide.

She led her colleagues earlier this month in sending a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem condemning the department’s aggressive immigration enforcement actions in the Aloha State.

Hirono in June also joined Padilla and the rest of the U.S. Senate Democratic Caucus demanding Trump immediately withdraw all militry forces from Los Angeles and cease all threats to deploy National Guard or active duty U.S. military members to U.S. cities.

Furthermore, she joined her colleagues last month to urge U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to resume processing applications for the DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, program after a 5th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that limited a nationwide injunction to Texas.

Imagine a Hawaiʻi where traffic deaths and serious injuries are no longer part of the news cycle; where instead of being so often connected to tragedy, roadways become places of safe, active, healthy and active lifestyles no matter what mode of transportation people choose.

Can you Vision Zero?

Hawaiʻi is committed to a future when all traffic deaths and serious injuries on island roadways no longer exist.

Hawaiʻi Department of Health — working with national, state and county traffic safety partners — developed and launched the Vision Zero Hawaiʻi initiative to assert that commitment to the public and raise awareness about how residents with a shared vision can help.

Public service announcements will air on TV, radio and digital platforms as well as appear in print media and at malls statewide through August.

Vision Zero is a response to the devastating impacts of the average 100 tragic traffic fatalities that happen each year in the Aloha State.

Traffic deaths on Hawaiʻi roads are up by more than 50% already this year. Nearly 70 fatalities have been reported so far in 2025 compared with just less than 50 by the same time in 2024.

Creating streets where people can move safely — whether walking, biking, rolling or driving — is a key to how Vision Zero aims to save lives.

Designing roads that protect all users helps residents feel safe choosing active ways to get around.

“Lower speed limits, protected bike lanes and improved crossings make it easier and safer for residents to choose walking or biking for short trips,” said O‘ahu Metropolitan Planning Organization Executive Director Mark Garrity in a state release about the initiative.

Staying active is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Yet, most adults and youth in the islands don’t meet federal physical activity guidelines.

“Physical inactivity is a major contributor to chronic disease,” said state Department of Health Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Division Administrator Lola Irvin in the release. “Walking, biking and rolling are ways to promote daily movement — especially for keiki and kūpuna.”

Irvin added that creating safe, convenient and connected routes so people can get to where they need to go everyday — grocery stores, schools, parks — will help and encourage Hawaiʻi residents stay physically active.

The public can support Vision Zero and help Hawaiʻi get to zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries by:

• SUPPORTING safer street designs.
• BEING responsible and attentive road users.
• PARTICIPATING IN planning meetings that promote safer roads.
• FOLLOWING and HELPING pass laws that prioritize walking and biking safety.

Each of Hawaiʻi’s counties already has or is developing its own Vision Zero Action Plan. Click here to read Hawaiʻi County’s Vision Zero Action Plan, released in September 2020.

“For too long, we’ve considered traffic deaths and severe injuries to be inevitable side effects of modern life,” says Hawaiʻi County’s action plan. “While often referred to as ‘accidents,’ the reality is that we can prevent these tragedies by taking a proactive, preventative approach that prioritizes traffic safety as a public health issue.”

The significant loss of life experienced on Big Island roadways each year takes a tragic toll, extends beyond the tragic personal loss to take a deep toll on the community.

It includes economic hardship and emotional trauma for those directly suffering and significant taxpayer spending on emergency response and long-term health care costs.

Plus, because so many fear for their safety on the island’s street and roadways, there is no true freedom of mobility.

“As a result, we compromise our public health with increasing rates of sedentary diseases and higher carbon emission,” the county’s Vision Zero plan says.

The plan establishes a transportation philosophy prioritizing preservation of human life instead of the convenience of quick travel.

“While the changes won’t always be easy, we are guided by the determination to save lives and reduce injuries for all Hawaiʻi Island residents and families,” it says.

You can learn more about Hawaiʻi County’s Vision Zero efforts by visiting the county website.

Community members can learn about local strategies, progress and opportunities to get involved by visiting the Vision Zero Hawaiʻi website.

Hawai‘i Gov. Josh Green earlier this week signed legislation further codifying the role of Hawai‘iʻs first state fire marshal in nearly half a century and solidified the state’s share of the settlement for claims relating to the destructive and deadly August 2023 Maui wildfires.

The Lahaina Fire killed more than 100 people.

“Today, we are re-envisioning the path forward in the roadmap of wildfire prevention and recovery,” Green said. “We are taking action from both ends of the wildfire spectrum — building a more robust fire prevention framework within the state and enacting historic legislation that will aid in timely access to compensation following disaster.”

In accordance with the Fire Safety Research Institute’s three-phase report — developed to improve fire preparedness and response following the August 2023 Maui wildfires — House Bill 1064 (Act 302) formalizes the institute’s phase three recommendations.

The phase focuses on the forward-looking portion of the investigation and proposes improvements to the Office of the Hawai‘i State Fire Marshal, originally established in 2024.

Act 302 transfers the state fire marshal’s office, which is led by the state fire marshal, to the Hawai‘i Department of Law Enforcement.

The legislation further clarifies the roles, duties and discretionary authority of the office and fire marshal, supporting the state’s efforts to provide coordinated, statewide fire prevention and readiness strategies.

To enhance coordination between the state fire marshal’s office and Hawai‘i State Fire Council, the bill also outlines responsibilities and organizational structure related to matters such as reporting and recommending amendments to state fire code.

It requires the fire chief of each county to investigate and maintain an annual record of fires. These records must be submitted to the state for centralized analysis.

County submissions will assist the state fire marshal to compile biennial statistical reports, including those available to the public and those submitted to the Hawai‘i Legislature.

Green last month appointed Dori Booth as Hawai‘i’s new state fire marshal, reviving a critical public safety position he said has been vacant nearly 46 years.

“This appointment marks a turning point as we redefine the role — empowering the office with clear authority and resources to better protect our state through fire prevention strategies and analysis,” the governor said.

Booth said that during her first month in office she met with many state, county and private stakeholders who deal with fire prevention, readiness and resiliency throughout the islands, calling it “eye-opening and incredibly encouraging.”

“These conversations have been instrumental in shaping my initial assessments and understanding the unique strengths each organization brings to the table,” she said.

House Bill 1064 also establishes the State Fire Marshal Selection Commission and defines its roles and structure. The selection commission will be given the authority to appoint and remove the state fire marshal, evaluate the marshal’s performance and address matters of public interest.

There is $2.2 million appropriated in fiscal year 2026 and an equal amount for fiscal year 2027 to support the establishment and operations of the state fire marshal’s office.

House Bill 1001 (Act 301) establishes the Maui Wildfires Settlement Trust Fund to provide dedicated funding for those affected by the 2023 Maui wildfires.

The bill appropriates $807.5 million to support the state’s contribution to the $4 billion settlement of claims, which shall be deposited into a trust fund.

Additional contributions to the state fund include funding from Maui County, Hawaiian Electric, Kamehameha Schools, Charter Communications/Spectrum, Hawaiian Telcom and West Maui Land Co.

Green said the funding will provide timely compensation for survivors’ claims as an alternative to lengthy litigation, ensuring those affected do not have to wait years to rebuild their lives.

Recipients of compensation from the settlement trust fund must agree to release the state and any additional parties that contribute to the fund from all further liability arising from the 2023 wildfires.

“This legislation is a huge win and sets a new precedent for swift settlement of claims for wildfire victims,” the governor said. “It should not take years for people to see compensation or begin rebuilding. This is about healing, restoring trust and helping families recover as quickly as possible in the place they call home.”

The recalled products, which include eight-pack, 20-pack and 40-pack cartons of Ritz, along with the variety 20-pack Ritz Filled Cracker Sandwich, are being pulled off shelves because the individually wrapped packs may be incorrectly labeled as the cheese variety, even though the product within may be the peanut butter variety, according to a news release from the Hawai‘i Department of Health Food and Drug Branch.

The outer cartons are labeled correctly and provide an allergen advisory statement, but the individually wrapped packs do not indicate that the product contains peanuts.

The products were distributed nationwide, including supermarkets and retailers in Hawai‘i. The state is inspecting local stores to ensure that the recalled products are no longer available for sale.

People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to peanuts may run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume or are exposed to the product. To date, there have been no reports of illness or adverse events attributed to the recalled products.

The FDB advises consumers to verify if they purchased the recalled product based on UPC, Best When Used By date and Plant Code markings on the label. See impacted product information below:

• 11.4 oz. RITZ Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches – 8 Count (8x 1.38 oz. six-pack); Retail UPC: 0 44000 88210 5; Best When Used by Dates: 1 NOV 25 – 9 NOV 25; Plant code: AE

• 27.6 oz. RITZ Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches – 20 Count (20x 1.38 oz. six-pack); Retail UPC: 0 44000 07584 2; Best When Used by Dates: 1 NOV 25 – 9 NOV 25 and 2 JAN 26 – 22 JAN 26; Plant code: AE

• 55.2 oz. RITZ Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches – 40 Count (40x 1.38 oz. six-pack); Retail UPC: 0 44000 07819 5; Best When Used by Dates: 1 NOV 25 – 9 NOV 25 and 2 JAN 26 – 22 JAN 26; Plant code: AM

• 27.3 oz. RITZ Filled Cracker Sandwich Variety Pack (10x Cheese 1.38 oz. six-pack and 10x Peanut Butter 1.38 oz. six-pack); Retail UPC: 0 44000 08095 2; Best When Used by Dates: 2 NOV 25 – 9 NOV 25; Plant code: RJ

Consumers may contact Mondelēz Global at 1-844-366-1171 for additional recall information 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The company’s consumer relations specialists are also available Monday through Friday from 3 a.m. to noon at the same number.

The company may proactively shut off power in Public Safety Power Shutoff areas on Maui and Hawaiʻi Island as part of its Public Safety Power Shutoff program, which continues in a watch condition that started on Saturday.

The Public Safety Power Shutoff program will follow these steps:

• If power is shut off, it will remain off so long as hazardous weather conditions persist.
• When the weather improves, power lines must be inspected and any damage must be repaired before service can be restored. This may involve ground crews and aerial inspections using helicopters and drones.
• This process may result in extended outages lasting several hours, possibly even days depending on the location and extent of any damage.

Power Safety Power Shutoff determinations can change at any time based on weather conditions. Outages not related to Hawaiian Electric’s Public Safety Power Shutoff program could still occur due to high winds and other conditions.

Hawaiian Electric will provide updates frequently through the news media and the following mobile-friendly resources: 

• Hawaiian Electric website: hawaiianelectric.com 
• Twitter/X: @HwnElectric; @mauielectric; @hielectriclight
• Facebook: facebook.com/HawaiianElectric 
• Mobile app: free download available on Apple App and Google Play stores 

You also have the option to sign up to receive emergency outage alerts from Hawaiian Electric at hawaiianelectric.com/psps. For more information and maps, call Hawaiian Electric’s Public Safety Power Shutoff hotline at 1-844-483-8666.

With an increase in local and national environmental disasters, Senate Bill 1044 (Act 296) aims to stabilize the state’s property insurance market as premiums skyrocket and coverage options decrease.

The law will expand the powers of the Hawaiʻi Property Insurance Association to provide extra insurance options for those unable to obtain coverage.

“After the Lahaina fires and the difficulty insuring ourselves, it turned the condo market upside down,” Green said. “We went through a thoughtful process to address the property insurance gap.”

The signing comes a day after a 95-acre wildfire on the west side of Oʻahu burned two Māʻili homes and forced the evacuation of residents in area neighborhoods.

“These are hard, stressful times for everyone, especially those who have lost everything,” Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee Chair Jarrett Keohokalole said. “It is a reminder of how vulnerable we all are to disaster.

“But it also highlights the importance of insurance. I am very grateful to address this silent crisis that is pushing residents to the brink with skyrocketing insurance rates with nowhere else to turn.”

Rep. Scot Z. Matayoshi, chair of the House Consumer Protection and Commerce Committee, said insurance companies told him the reason rates for condominiums are so high is due to high-impact repairs needed from water loss and deferred maintenance.

The bill contains a pilot program to provide condo owners with low-interest loans to make specific high-impact repairs that should lower insurance premiums and raise unit values.

“We targeted this bill to help the average condominium building, not the luxury high-rises,” Matayoshi said. “While the bill is an answer for the short term, the long-term solution comes from the loan program.”

In August 2024, Green issued an emergency proclamation to temporarily reactivate the Hawaiʻi Hurricane Relief Fund, which was formed in 1993 in response to private insurers withdrawing from the hurricane market after the devastation caused by Hurricane ʻIniki.

As time passed and private insurers resumed offering hurricane coverage, the relief fund ceased operation and remained dormant. But the Lahaina wildfire renewed the need for it.

Now, Act 296 reactivates the relief fund through law to provide insurance coverage in scenarios where the private market fails to do so. Beginning June 24, the relief fund is accepting applications by condominium and townhouse Associations of Apartment Owners.

“This is open to any condominium association, not just high-rises. It includes town homes and single-family homes, as long as they get commercial property insurance in the state,” said Jerry Bump, the State Insurance Commissioner.

To be eligible, a condo association must have been previously denied hurricane coverage by at least two state-licensed insurance companies operating in Hawaiʻi and have buildings with a total insured value exceeding $10 million.

This is excess coverage that can only cover the portion of losses above $10 million. The associations must purchase separate primary insurance to cover hurricane losses up to $10 million.

The relief fund has received about 80 applications and has issued 10 policies within the first week.

“We’re hearing anecdotes that these associations have seen a considerable amount of savings,” Bump said.

The Hawaiʻi Hurricane Relief Fund only applies to hurricane insurance. For all other perils, condo associations must go through the Hawaiʻi Property Insurance Association, which is setting up a program expected to begin accepting applications in the fourth quarter of the year.

In other legislation, Green signed House Bill 613 (Act 297) to expand essential resources for youth and young adults facing homelessness.

The measure makes the Safe Places for Youth program permanent, providing 24-hour access to shelter, mental health care, education support, and job training for homeless youth.

“As everyone knows, we have a homeless crisis in our state, and too often, young individuals suffer the most, especially those in the LGBTQ community,” Green said. “Many have found themselves forced out of the home and struggling with great challenges in life.

“Now there will be spots throughout the state, mostly on Oʻahu for now, where youth can find support directly that will guide them through a warm hand-off to services.”

Through the joint efforts of state and county departments, those in need of further support will be connected to nonprofit institutions with the expertise to offer long-term support and shelter. Services will expand on Hawaiʻi Island and Oʻahu, with plans to expand statewide so the most vulnerable youth have a lifeline to feel safe.

“Youth in need can text or walk in and receive family-strengthening services for reunification or transitional services for youth unable to return to families,” said Rep. Lisa Marten, chair of the House Committee on Human Services and Homelessness. “The program provides behavioral health services and job training, help that all young people need so they can become self-sufficient and thriving members of communities.”

Reports on this program will be submitted to the State Legislature, with appropriations of $871,016 for fiscal year 2026 and $1.8 million for fiscal year 2027.

“This is how we break the cycle of homelessness, by investing in people, especially our youth,” Green said. “We are shaping a future where everyone has a chance to thrive. This program shows what is possible when a community comes together with a purpose.”

Slideshows on the insurance stabilization bill and the bill relating to houseless youth can be found with more details.

The forecast also calls for east winds of 35 to 50 mph with gusts up to 60 mph on Big Island summits through 6 p.m. Tuesday.

Original story: Hawai‘i County Civil Defense urges the public in the dry and drought-stricken areas under a wind advisory in effect through Monday (July 7) to exercise caution when planning and having outside activities — especially when fire is involved.

Any spark creates an opportunity for wildfire to ignite where there are strong, high winds; very low relative humidity levels; and dry fuels available to consume.

“Be careful with the use of open flame and fire and hotwork activity,” Civil Defeesne said in an early afternoon message. “Please avoid parking vehicles on dry grass after travel.”

Winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph are forecast for the advisory areas of North Kohala and portions of South Kohala, North Kona, Hāmākua, Kaʻū and Puna — the normally windier, and drier, areas of the Big Island.

High winds are expected to persist as a strong high pressure ridge to the north of the islands set up a stable and breezy to windy trade wind pattern.

The strong pressure ridge led to increasing winds in those windier areas of the Big Island and Maui County, with National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu not expecting winds to decrease — slightly — until Wednesday.

An updated forecast from just after 3 p.m. today said the strongest winds are now expected Monday and Tuesday, with the next 2 days featuring even more widespread advisory level winds in the areas already under the wind advisory while the high pressure ridge continues to strengthen.

At the same time, minimum relative humidity at lower leeward elevations is likely to fall to or below 45% this afternoon and Monday afternoon along with temperature inversion heights dropping as low as 5,000 feet.

That temperature inversion level indicates a stable layer of warm air closer to the ground, trapping dry air with it and increasing the risk of fire spread.

Marginal fire weather conditions will continue into the middle of this week as trades strengthen Monday and Tuesday, the updated forecast said, along with temperature inversion heights remaining at about 6,500 feet under a slightly drier airmass.

Nearly 87% of the Big Island is also abnormally dry or under drought, according to the most recent U.S. Drought Monitor data as of July 1.

About 57% of the island is experiencing varying degrees of actual drought, including all of the areas covered by the wind advisory, with the North Kohala, South Kohala, Kaʻū and especially Hāmākua — a portion of which is under extreme drought — seeing some of the worst dry conditions.

That adds fuel to any future flames, literally, because of how dry vegetation is in those parched and arid areas.

All of those conditions combined will result in near critical fire weather conditions at times in dry leeward areas during the next couple of days — the reason Civil Defense issued its plea, and why Hawaiian Electric is again closely monitoring the situation in areas of Maui and Hawai‘i counties more prone to wildfire.

The electric utility already proactively shut off power to about 330 of its Upcountry Maui customers early Sunday afternoon through its Public Safety Power Shutoff Program because of the threat of wildfire.

Additional power shutoffs could be initiated in other areas of the Valley Isle and Big Island — where communities are at high risk of wildfire — as Hawaiian Electric remains in “watch” mode during the next 24 to 48 hours, especially while the wind advisory remains in effect.

If weather conditions intensify in any of those high-risk communities, Hawaiian Electric could implement the Public Safety Power Shutoff Program again and proactively turn off the power.

Customers in all high-risk wildfire areas are urged to implement their own emergency plans and prepare for the possibility of extended power outages.

Hawaiian Electric informed those 330 Upcountry Maui customers at about 2:30 p.m. they should prepare to be without electricity through Monday morning, as power will remain off until weather conditions improve and crews can inspect lines and equipment in the area as well as make any necessary repairs.

“We know that being without electricity for any amount of time creates an inconvenience for our customers and we apologize for the disruption,” said Hawaiian Electric Senior Vice President and Chief Operations Officer Jim Alberts in an update from the utility. “We only activate a [public safety power shutoff] as a last line of defense to protect lives and reduce the risk of a wildfire.”

He said in an earlier update that the utility continues to watch weather conditions closely and will restore power to those it shutoff as soon as it is safe to do so.

When a public safety power shutoff is initiated:

• Power will remain shut off as long as hazardous weather conditions persist.
• When weather improves, power lines must be inspected and any damage repaired before service can be restored. This could involve ground crews and aerial inspections using helicopters and drones.
• This process could result in extended outages lasting several hours or possibly even days, depending on the location and extent of any damage.

Maps of specific areas on each island that have high wildfire risk and could be subject to a public safety power shutoff can be found on Hawaiian Electric’s website.

Hawaiian Electric urges customers to be safe:

• Stay at least 30 or more feet away from all downed power lines. Warn others to stay away. Call Hawaiian Electric’s Hawai‘i Island Trouble Line at 1-855-304-9191. Call 9-1-1 for emergency assistance.
• Help protect line workers and crews when you see them on the roadside assessing damages or making emergency repairs; if you must travel, move over from the lane nearest the workers or slow down until you can safely pass the work site.
• Use extreme caution when driving. Power interruptions could cause traffic signals to stop working without warning. If you come to an intersection with a non-working traffic signal, treat it as a four-way stop.
• Make sure your portable generator — if you’re using one — is placed in a well-ventilated area outside your home. Carefully follow all instructions in the manufacturer’s manual.
• Ensure all electric appliances, especially ovens and stoves, are turned off to prevent fires when power is restored.

Hawaiian Electric will provide updates through news media and the following mobile-friendly resources:

• Hawaiian Electric website.
• Twitter/X.
• Facebook.
• Mobile app: Free download available on the Apple Store and Google Play.

REMEMBER: Outages not related to the Public Safety Power Shutoff Program could also still occur because of high winds and other conditions.

Call Hawaiian Electric’s Public Safety Power Shutoff toll-free hotline at 1-844-483-8666 or click here to get additional information.

Check the Hawaiʻi Hazard Impact Map in the event a wildfire ignites or another emergency happens for information about its location as well as any associated road closures, emergency shelters, evacuations and more.

The discovery was made by the NASA-funded Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System, or ATLAS, telescope in Rio Hurtado, Chile. ATLAS is a global network of four telescopes managed by University of Hawaiʻi Institute for Astronomy that scan the skies for asteroids that could pose a threat to Earth.

Researchers say our newest interstellar visitor — which poses no danger to Earth — is moving right through the Milky Way, making it difficult to distinguish amidst all the stars.

But this is one of the four-telescope network’s strengths.

“Spotting a possible interstellar object is incredibly rare, and it’s exciting that our [University of Hawaiʻi]-operated system caught it,” said Institute for Astronomy astronomer and professor John Tonry in a release about the visitor’s arrival. “The chances of one actually hitting the Earth are infinitesimal, less than 1 in 10 million each year, but ATLAS is continually searching the sky for any object that might pose a problem.”

The newly identified object, designated A11pl3Z, was added July 1 to the International Astronomical Union’s Near-Earth Object confirmation list. A Minor Planet Electronic Circular was just released naming it 3I/ATLAS.

Its trajectory and speed moving toward the sun confirm it originated from outside our solar system — and it will leave the solar system again after passing the sun.

Early estimates suggest 3I/ATLAS could be as large as 12 miles in diameter. Researchers say it will make its closest approach to the sun — about twice the distance from Earth — in October, traveling at more than 150,000 miles per hour.

“These interstellar visitors provide an extremely interesting glimpse of things from solar systems other than our own,” Tonry said. “Quite a few come through our inner solar system each year, although 3I/ATLAS is by far the biggest to date.”

While 3I/ATLAS appears on the Near-Earth Object list and has no risk of hitting Earth, or even a close pass, it is sobering that if it struck the blue planet we call home — and again, it will not — it would create an explosion more than 100 times greater than the asteroid that killed the dinosaurs.

Researchers suspect that 3I/ATLAS is a comet and it should show increasing activity as it gets closer to the sun, but it will never get warm enough to be seen by the naked eye.

The detection of 3I/ATLAS marks our solar system’s third time saying aloha to an interstellar visitor, following the discoveries of ʻOumuamua in 2017 and comet 2I/Borisov in 2019.

ʻOumuamua was first detected by University of Hawaiʻi’s Pan-STARRS1 telescope atop Haleakalā on Mau and became the first object to receive an official interstellar designation.

It caught global attention with its strange, elongated shape and unexpected acceleration as it exited the solar system.

Although it showed no visible tail, its motion suggested comet-like behavior.

Most scientists now agree that it was a natural object, likely a comet from another star system, although its exact nature is still debated.

Hawaiʻi also has seen a dramatic 585% increase in local arrests by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents

Meanwhile, Hawai‘i lawmakers in Washington want answers regarding the federal agency’s immigration enforcement policies and procedures, condemning its recent aggressive enforcement actions in communities throughout the Aloha State.

ACLU of Hawai‘i Legal Director Wookie Kim said it is the duty of local governments to protect their residents, not act as an arm of federal immigration enforcement.

“At a time when immigration arrests are spiking in Hawaiʻi, we’re demanding clarity on whether our police departments are helping carry out raids that instill fear in immigrant communities and whether they are doing so in ways that flout legal safeguards,” Kim said in a release from the nonprofit.

ACLU of Hawai‘i’s public records requests to all county police departments for any agreements with Department of Homeland Security — including Homeland Security Investigations and Immigration and Customs Enforcement — in connection with immigration enforcement in the state follows U.S. Congress passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act last week.

The Republican tax and spending reconciliation bill H.R. 1, among other actions, allocates substantial resources for immigration enforcement.

ACLU of Hawai‘i requests county police departments produce copies of any agreements, correspondence about potentially entering into collaboration agreements and information about current collaboration efforts with immigration enforcement, such as allowing immigration officers to use county detention cells or sending county police officers to assist with immigration raids.

Its also asking for copies of policies or internal guidance about county collaboration with federal immigration enforcement, including when police officers should question a person about their immigration status and when police officers should contact federal immigration enforcement personnel about a person being questioned or be placed under arrest by county police.

The request comes on the heels of an ACLU of Hawai‘i letter asking all county police chiefs, council members and mayors in the state not to sign any memoranda of understanding or agreements devoting local resources with any entities of the Department of Homeland Security.

Chief Ben Moszkowicz confirmed to Big Island Now last month that Hawai‘i Police Department has two memorandums of understanding with Homeland Security Investigations — one that allows for shared office space with two special agents to collaborate on drug and human trafficking cases and another to have task force officers cross-deputized for specific enforcement relating to drug and violent crimes.

The chief also clarified that these agreements do not include civil immigration enforcement and said Hawai‘i Police Department will not sign any 287(g) agreements with the Department of Homeland Security, referring to a section of federal immigration law that delegates federal authority to carry out certain immigration enforcement activities to participating local law enforcement officers.

“Our commitment remains to keep people safe, protect their rights and provide whatever humanitarian support we can to anyone in Hawai‘i,” Moszkowicz said. “We have not, do not and will not conduct civil immigration enforcement.”

ACLU of Hawai‘i, along with numerous community partners, is furthermore asking the state’s congressional delegation to exercise its oversight responsibilities of the Honolulu Federal Detention Center to ensure acceptable conditions for those being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

With those in detainment now also coming from other states and a dramatic increase in local immigration arrests, the strain on local resources for legal assistance and ensuring due process continues to be a challenge.

“It is vitally important that the community know if and how local resources are used to promote federal immigration goals,” ACLU of Hawai‘i Senior Staff Attorney Emily Hills said in a release from the nonprofit. “Police collaboration with immigration enforcement not only diverts limited resources away from local law enforcement priorities, but it undermines public trust, ultimately making our communities less safe.”

U.S. Sens. Mazie Hirono and Brian Schatz along with U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda, all Hawai‘i Democrats, sent a letter last week to U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem condemning her department’s aggressive immigration enforcement actions in the Aloha State.

They also demanded the agency clarify its policies and procedures for immigration enforcement, as well as provide monthly briefings to each of their offices.

“Rather than making us safer or more secure, your needlessly aggressive immigration enforcement has created chaos and confusion in our communities while raising due process concerns,” wrote the lawmakers. “Our offices have heard from hundreds of constituents. They are concerned about your efforts to sweep up children, workers and longtime members of our community with little apparent regard for their criminal history or lack thereof.”

The letter cites multiple examples of incidents throughout the state where Department of Homeland Security created chaos and confusion through its aggressive enforcement actions.

Some particularly egregious examples include:

• Customs and Border Protection officers interrogated the wife of an active duty military member upon her arrival to the U.S. She was denied entry, sent to a detention center where she was strip searched and subjected to a cavity search, and prohibited from contacting friends and family before being deported.
• Homeland Security Investigations agents attempted to gain access to farms, followed workers home from work and loitered in areas frequented by workers. During the first Trump administration, similar actions damaged our vital industries and chilled activity by those fearful of being targets. We have already heard disturbing reports from coffee farmers, particularly smaller coffee farms, warning that these actions will result in their crops not being harvested.
• Homeland Security traumatized 10 teachers on Maui — one a U.S. citizen and the rest here legally — by detaining them at gunpoint without giving them an opportunity to explain themselves or even fully dress themselves.
• Homeland Security detained a father resulting in no caregiving being available for his elementary school-aged child. As a result, a school resource officer had to remove the minor from school at Konawaena Elementary.

“These actions damage our constituents and communities, erode public trust in [Department of Homeland Security] and do not accomplish anything other than creating fear and terrorizing communities,” the lawmakers wrote. “If this is your goal, you should explicitly say so. Otherwise, [Department of Homeland Security] must demonstrate its respect for Hawai‘i’s citizens and communities.”

Hirono, Schatz and Tokuda asked that Noem to provide the following information no later than July 22 to their offices:

• Policies requiring officers to clearly identify themselves when conducting immigration enforcement actions. What steps does Homeland Security undertake to prevent impersonations?
• Policies regarding after-action read outs.
• Steps taken to avoid enforcement actions in sensitive locations absent exigent circumstances.
• Efforts to work with child care experts to create trauma-informed protocols for handling child welfare checks and other interactions with minors.

The full text of the letter from the Hawai‘i lawmakers to the Homeland Security secretary is available online.

Find more information about ACLU of Hawai‘i’s public records request to county police departments and work to protect the civil rights and civil liberties of the people of the islands by visiting the organization’s website.

Officials call the new plan a bold roadmap to reduce transportation emissions and expand affordable transportation options for all state residents.

The plan provides strategies for the transportation sector to achieve the state climate targets set in law:

• 50% emissions reduction from 2005 levels by 2030.
• Net negative transportation emissions by 2045, meaning Hawaiʻi should capture more emissions than it produces.
• Ultimately, zero transportation emissions.

“[Hawai‘i Departmennt of Transportation’s] Energy Security Plan is a call to action,” said Hawai‘i State Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen in the state’s announcement about the plan’s release. “Together, we can create a transportation system that is cleaner and safer while fulfilling its purpose to connect our communities. The strategies outlined in this plan will help us build out the system for our future generations.”

Pillars of the plan are island energy security, affordability for kamaʻāina and emissions reduction.

A sampling of strategies include:

• Incentives for electric vehicles and cleaner fuels.
• Build out within 5 years of significant pedestrian, bicycle and transit projects so people can chose transportation options other than single-passenger vehicles.
• Immediate investment in carbon sequestration efforts such as native reforestation.

The plan — which will be updated annually to reflect new data, technology and community feedback — fulfills a commitment made by Hawai‘i Department of Transportation under the youth-led Navahine Settlement Agreement reached in June 2024.

“Transportation impacts everyone in Hawaiʻi and we therefore encourage feedback and ask for partnership from industry, fellow agencies and the public, including Hawaiʻi’s youth,” Sniffen said. “Collective action across all sectors, public and private, will increase transportation choice, decrease costs for users of the system and enable us to achieve these ambitious targets.”

The draft Energy Security and Waste Reduction Plan and comment form are available online.

“We appreciate [Hawai‘i Department of Transportation] working to implement the Navahine settlement and plan for the safer, cheaper and cleaner transportation system we need to protect the fundamental rights of our youth,” said Isaac Moriwake with Earthjustice, co-counsel for the Navahine youth plaintiffs, in the state’s announcement. “This plan is meant to be a living document to map our way forward, and we must all help to breathe life into this vision. Aʻohe hana nui ke alu ʻia: No task is too big if done by all.”

The state Transportation Department will host a series of public presentations via videoconference later this month to provide an opportunity for the public to learn more about the plan, ask questions and provide feedback.

Dates and registration information will be available on department’s website soon.

“This plan is the catalyst for creating a future that all people can thrive in,” said Hawai‘i Youth Transportation Council Member Kawika Pegram in the state’s announcement. “Through this plan, we can harness the power of local industry, create meaningful jobs and invest in public infrastructure like never before.”

The electric utility urges everyone to be ready for the possibility of wildfires this summer as federal data show nearly 54% of Hawaiʻi was experiencing some level of drought as of the beginning of this month.

Almost 57% of the Big Island is in drought, with nearly 36% experiencing moderate drought, 18% under severe drought and another about 3% seeing extreme drought conditions. 

The driest portions of the island are in the Hāmākua and South Kohala.

Drought conditions lead to dry vegetation, which becomes fuel for wildfires.

The risk of wildfire increases during periods of hot, dry weather, but blazes can spark suddenly at any time. Hawaiian Electric urges its customers to review emergency plans and take steps to protect their homes and businesses.

Wildfires can spread rapidly, so have a “go bag” with essential items and be ready to evacuate with little notice.

Waiting too long to evacuate can expose you to more risk and create additional traffic that impedes the efforts of first responders.

As a last line of defense, Hawaiian Electric could implement a public safety power shutoff, proactively disconnecting power in high-risk areas to reduce the chance for igniting wildfires.

A red flag warning or fire weather warning issued by the National Weather Service, however, do not automatically trigger a public safety power shutoff.

There are three primary criteria for determining when to implement a public safety power shutoff:

• Persistent drought conditions.
• Wind gusts of 45 mph and stronger.
• Relative humidity of less than 45%.

Hawaiian Electric added a watch period — 24 to 48 hours before a possible public safety power shutoff — as an early stage this year if weather data indicates there could be conditions for heightened wildfire risk in coming days.

This is the time residents in public safety power shutoff areas should activate emergency plans, including having survival kits and “go bags” ready, knowing where to go if and when they decide to leave home, and paying close attention to notifications from Hawaiian Electric and emergency agencies.

Visit Hawaiian Electric’s website for more information about the Public Safety Power Shutoff Program and maps of public safety power shutoff zones on Oʻahu and Hawaiʻi Island and in Maui County.

Hawaiian Electric is implementing a multi-year strategy to reduce the risk of wildfires associated with utility infrastructure.

The program calls for ongoing grid hardening, vegetation management, installation of more weather stations and hazard-detection cameras coupled with ongoing engagement with customers and other stakeholders in the communities Hawaiian Electric serves.

Additional progress in 2025 includes:

• Replaced or upgraded 871 wood poles.
• Replaced 12 miles of overhead copper conductors with aluminum.
• Started planning for replacement of 75 miles of overhead lines with covered conductors.
• Started planning for hardening of 19 miles of transmission and subtransmission lines.
• Replaced 2,800 expulsion fuses.
• Replaced 982 lightning arrestors.

Download Hawaiian Electric’s Handbook for Emergency Preparedness for additional emergency preparedness information.

Visit the Hawai‘i Wildfire Management Organization website for more tips about how to be wildfire safe.

He also signed the remaining 12 bills, as well as five measures relating to topics such as stormwater management and kūpuna care.

The last 16 of Hawai‘i Legislature’s total 320 bills passed during its 2025 session will become law by July 9, including measures covering issues such as condominium insurance, the Maui wildfire settlement, construction liability reform and support for nonprofit organizations throughout the state impacted by changes to federal funding.

“We have covered critical topics such as the climate impact fee, women’s court, biosecurity, free school meals, fireworks and public safety,” Green said in an announcement about the vetoes and bill signings. “Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke spearheaded efforts for broadband access and expanded Preschool Open Doors. These wins reflect what can be achieved when we work together for the good of our state.”

Green vetoed the following eight bills:

HOUSE BILL 235: Relating to traffic safety

• VETO RATIONALE: Hawai‘i Department of Transportation developed specific criteria for the selection of communities within which to implement traffic safety systems. This criteria incorporates data-driven crash, citation and traffic volume metrics, which ensure communities are chosen based on need and potential for greatest impact. Ignoring this criteria in favor of legislatively mandated location selection threatens the integrity of the photo red light imaging detector system and automated speed enforcement system programs.

HOUSE BILL 796: Relating to tax credits

• VETO RATIONALE: This bill would have a significant long-term impact on income tax credits throughout a variety of industries, including film and television, research and renewable energy. These tax credits are critical to supporting economic development and diversification, particularly within growing and emerging sectors. Categorically sunsetting income tax credits will not only disincentivize future investors from doing business in Hawai‘i, but will destabilize existing businesses that currently rely upon these tax credits.

HOUSE BILL 958: Relating to transportation

• VETO RATIONALE: While mopeds and motorcycles are exempt from the prohibition established within this bill, on “high-speed electric devices” driving on public roadways, electric cars are not exempt in the definition. Such a prohibition would likely violate the Commerce Clause and Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution and conflict with the administration’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

HOUSE BILL 1296: Relating to the Major Disaster Fund

• VETO RATIONALE: The administration is committed to transparent, efficient management of state funds. During times of emergency, flexibility and quick release of funds is necessary to respond to rapidly changing situations. This bill disrupts the delicate balance between reporting requirements facilitating government transparency and fiscal flexibility for efficient emergency response and recovery efforts. Prioritizing additional administrative oversight instead of funds expended for emergencies jeopardizes public safety.

HOUSE BILL 1369: Relating to taxation

• VETO RATIONALE: The amendments to the general excise tax and use tax contained in this bill would impact sugarcane producers, commercial fishing vessels and securities exchanges. Removing the specific tax exemptions afforded to these entities would provide little financial benefit to the state while harming, in particular, sugarcane producers.

SENATE BILL 31: Relating to property

• VETO RATIONALE: By enabling anyone, including those without interest in the specified real property, to record a statement that a real property’s title includes a discriminatory restrictive covenant, this bill provides a statutorily authorized mechanism for the circulation of disinformation. This disinformation has the potential to negatively affect the marketability of a property. Because the person who recorded the statement claiming a discriminatory restrictive covenant exists is waived of any liability, no recourse is available to those who suffer financial loss because of inaccurate claims concerning their property’s title.

SENATE BILL 583: Relating to naming rights

• VETO RATIONALE: Pursuant to Section 14, Article III, of the Hawai‘i State Constitution, each bill can only contain one subject, which must pertain to the bill’s title. The exemption of concessions in the stadium facility and convention center from typical concession procurement procedures might violate Section 14, Article III, of the Hawai‘i State Constitution since the exemption appears to fall outside the titular scope of the bill, naming rights.

SENATE BILL 1102: Relating to the aircraft rescue fire fighting unit

• VETO RATIONALE: The appointment process proposed in the bill is inconsistent with the selection process for other department leadership positions. Furthermore, because of the need to obtain legislative approval for the appointment of the fire chief, following the appointment process contained in this bill could delay the appointment of this critical leadership position, impacting airport operations, safety and readiness.

Hawai‘i Senate President Ronald Kouchi and Hawai‘i House Speaker Nadine Nakamura, who both represent Kaua‘i, issued statements from their respective chambers following the governor’s final veto decisions.

After review, neither determined a special legislative session is warranted to override any of them.

These are the 12 bills from his intent-to-veto list Green signed into law Thursday:

• HOUSE BILL 302 (ACT 241): Relating to cannabis (marijuana).
• HOUSE BILL 496 (ACT 242): Relating to māmaki tea.
• HOUSE BILL 300 (ACT 250): Relating to the state budget.
• HOUSE BILL 126 (ACT 288): Relating to property forfeiture.
• HOUSE BILL 800 (ACT 289): Relating to government.
• SENATE BILL 935 (ACT 290): Relating to government.
• SENATE BILL 589 (ACT 266): Relating to renewable energy.
• SENATE BILL 447 (ACT 291): Relating to a Hawai‘i Department of Health pilot program.
• SENATE BILL 104 (ACT 292): Relating to Corrections.
• SENATE BILL 15 (ACT 293): Relating to Historic Preservation.
• SENATE BILL 38 (ACT 294): Relating to housing.
• SENATE BILL 66 (ACT 295): Relating to housing.

The governor took action on 304 of the 320 bills passed by the Hawai‘i Legislature during the 2025 state legislative session.

Bills signed by Green are tracked on the Hawai‘i Legislature’s website. You can also find additional information about other measures passed by state lawmakers during this year’s legislative session and more.

The program stems from Act 235, also known as Duke’s Law, which was signed last week by Gov. Josh Green.

The law was named by state Sen. Tim Richards in memory of Cranston “Duke” Pia, a 39-year-old Waiʻanae rancher who was fatally shot in 2024 during a confrontation with trespassing hunters.

Pia’s death prompted community members, lawmakers and agricultural groups to push for more serious enforcement and tougher penalties for trespassers, thieves and illegal hunters targeting agricultural land.

As a rancher in Kohala, Richards said he has experienced a fair share of agricultural crimes and was a passionate advocate for the law.

“I feel like we’re finally moving the needle for agriculture because for so long, agricultural crime has not been a concern because ‘it is just trespassing, or they just took a couple of fruits,'” Richards said. “But those fruits are people’s livelihoods, and Pia’s murder began with a trespass.”

Agricultural crimes are complex and multifaceted, so the state law is designed to provide a comprehensive response by having clearer definitions and penalties for violations related to agriculture and agricultural lands.

The state Department of Law Enforcement initiated the pilot agricultural enforcement program on July 1 and will deploy nine dedicated officers — four on Oʻahu, four on Hawaiʻi Island, and one supervisor overseeing both teams. They will focus on human-related agricultural crimes that involve theft, trespassing, illegal hunting, poaching and vandalism.

According to Richards, these crimes jeopardize the lives and livelihoods of farmers, undermine food security, disrupt local economies, and erode public confidence in the protection of vital resources.

The Hawaiʻi Farm Bureau estimates that agricultural crimes cost local farmers and ranchers up to $15 million annually.

Before the law, agricultural crimes often resulted in small fines. Now, habitual offenders — those with three or more agriculture-related offenses within five years — will face felony charges and jail time. The bill also allows for the seizure of weapons, vehicles and other equipment used in these crimes.

“We don’t want to punish the young guy who made a mistake one time, but we do want to target habitual offenders with harsher penalties,” Richards said. “However, no one is under any illusion that we’ll solve all the issues right away. The officers will have to meet with farmers and ranchers to see what problems they face, and new technology and equipment will need to be tested.”

The pilot program, with about $2 million in funding, will utilize tools like drones and license plate recognition cameras to help patrol large and remote land.

“It could take 30 to 40 minutes for an officer to investigate,” said Mike Lambert, director of the Department of Law Enforcement. “In theory, if we had a drone at the location, it could be out in one minute and begin capturing that violation.”

Richards has suggested that the Department of Law Enforcement meet with people working in agriculture to learn about the best spots to place these cameras and implement one database per county for agricultural calls and inquiries.

“As a rancher myself, the standalone law enforcement focused on agriculture, in my opinion, will be the most helpful,” Richards said. “Luckily, the law enforcement is wide open when it comes to figuring out how to roll this out and approach crimes. I’m sure there will be tweaks, but the officers will tap into farmers and ranchers as a resource to figure out how to move forward.”

For farmers and ranchers interested in meeting with the agricultural officers to discuss pervasive issues they face, Richards said to contact his office at 808-586-6760 or email senrichards@capitol.hawaii.gov.

If you’ve been following the ongoing episodic summit eruption of Kīlauea volcano on the Big Island, you might have seen the terms “gas piston” or “gas pistoning” show up in some of the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory updates, photo captions and other places.

If you’ve followed Kīlauea’s activity for even longer than the current eruption, you might have seen the term pop up before as well — the phenomenon was observed in the 2008-18 lava lake as well as vents at Puʻuʻōʻō between 1983 and 2018.

It’s been seen during even earlier eruptions, such as sat Maunaulu in the 1960s and in Halemaʻumaʻu Crater in the early part of the 1900s at the summit caldera — during Hawaiian Volcano Observatory founder Thomas Jaggar’s tenure at Kīlauea.

But what exactly is “gas pistoning” to which we’re referring?

Essentially, gas pistoning is a shallow, degassing-driven rise and fall of a lava surface.

These pistons often occur in narrow conduits, although they can happen in larger lava lakes and even in lava channels — and in bunches, as part of a series.

To start a piston, or one cycle of pistoning, lava at the surface becomes more viscous, or thick, usually by cooling. It’s more difficult than usual for gases to escape from that cooler, more viscous lava.

So gases that would otherwise escape easily into the atmosphere instead begin to accumulate and build up a foamy, bubbly layer beneath that surface of cooler lava.

Eventually, the foamy layer becomes buoyant enough to push the whole layer of viscous lava above it up to higher levels in the volcanic conduit — akin to a piston moving up inside an engine.

If the lava reaches the top of the conduit, such that it can spill out, the top lava layer thins out to the point that the gas layer beneath can be released, which is often accompanied by lava spattering and bubble bursts.

Any lava that did not spill out of the conduit can then drain back deeper, where it might or might not become part of another gas piston cycle.

If the lava remains within a conduit, but still at a higher level than normal because of the buoyant foam layer, the piston could destabilize on its own, or it might require an external force to destabilize it.

Many gas pistons at Maunaulu and Halemaʻumaʻu have been observed to end, or drain, when rocks from a rockfall punctured the top layer of viscous lava, which then allowed the gas from the accumulated foam layer to escape.

When the lava is rising or at a static high level, with most of the gas trapped in the foam layer, volcanic tremor and sulfur dioxide emission rates drop to low levels because much volcanic tremor is caused by degassing itself.

If the gas can’t escape normally — whether during a gas piston or some other circumstance — not as much tremor is generated. When a gas piston ends, with the lava draining back down accompanied by violent spattering and release of the accumulated gas, tremor spikes.

We have observed a range of gas piston types during this ongoing episodic summit eruption at Kīlauea.

They began to become obvious in March as part of precursory activity ahead of sustained lava fountaining Episodes 14 and 15. Since then, some episodes have had obvious precursory gas pistons and others have not.

Some gas pistons during the current eruption involve lava rising high enough that overflows spilled out of both vents in Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, which can help initiate gas release and lava drainback.

Others don’t quite reach the top of the magma conduit in the vents and instead drain without having lava overflows.

Still more aren’t visible to our cameras or even observers in the field, but based on variations in recorded tremor and sulfur dioxide emission rate, we can surmise that pistoning is still happening, just deeper in the conduit and out of view.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory does not yet have a full understanding of why the gas pistons are often a precursor to the high fountaining episodes or why they might behave differently from episode to episode.

But we continue to collect geophysical and gas chemistry data, and make other geological observations, in order to better understand the gas pistoning phenomenon and the role it plays in the ongoing summit eruption.

Gas pistoning has been observed at Kīlauea for more than 100 years, and we expect it to continue during the ongoing eruption and as part of future eruptions, too.

Volcano Activity Updates

Kīlauea has been erupting episodically within its summit caldera since Dec. 23, 2024. Its U.S. Geological Survey Volcano Alert Level remains at Watch.

Episode 27 of the ongoing episodic eruption in Halemaʻumaʻu Crater happened June 29, with about 11 hours of fountaining from the north and south vents.

Summit region inflation since the end of Episode 27 along with persistent tremor suggest another eruptive episode is possible and could start between July 7 and 12.

Sulfur dioxide emission rates are elevated in the summit region during active eruption episodes. No unusual activity has been noted along Kīlauea’s East Rift Zone or Southwest Rift Zone.

Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its U.S. Geological Survey Volcano Alert Level remains at Normal.

No earthquakes were reported felt in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

Visit the observatory website for past “Volcano Watch” articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake information and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

Green, Schatz, Hirono, Case and Tokuda stated that they will be moving quickly to protect Hawaiʻi’s most vulnerable residents, many of which will be closing healthcare coverage and food assistance.

“The Republican tax bill breaks promises, and guts funding for healthcare and food assistance that thousands of Hawai‘i families rely on every day,” they said in the statement. “It’s a terrible bill that we all strongly opposed.”

The tax bill will cut healthcare coverage through Med-QUEST for more than 40,000 people in Hawai‘i, gut food assistance programs for more than 20,000 families, and will also raise the national debt by $3.3 trillion.

“While it won’t be easy to stop all the damage from these cuts, we’re moving quickly to protect our communities. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be meeting with state and local officials, community partners, and service providers to assess the fiscal impact on Hawai‘i and develop operational plans to blunt the harm,” they said. “That includes coordinating resources, setting local priorities, and making sure the most vulnerable aren’t left without support. These next few years won’t be easy, but we are mobilizing now to respond, protect our people, and make sure Hawai‘i can weather what’s coming.”

The organization — which supports more than 4,000 girl and adult members statewide, building girls of courage, confidence and character — set a goal to establish a new troop on every public elementary school campus in the islands to bring the proven benefits of Girl Scouting to even more girls.

Girl Scouts of Hawaiʻi beginning in August will fund trained facilitators to lead troops in close geographic regions throughout the state, each serving about 10 troops and 150 girls.

This approach expands upon a successful model already in place at 25 Title I schools, blending the traditional volunteer-led structure with professional staff support to remove barriers to participation.

“Every year we have a long waitlist of girls who want to become Girl Scouts, but no nearby troop to place them and no volunteer willing to lead a new troop,” said Girl Scouts of Hawaiʻi Chief Executive Officer Kanoe Nāone in an annoucement about the initiative. “This model ensures that every school that says yes to Girl Scouts will have a troop — guaranteed.”

Girls will have access to a wide range of experiences from coding workshops or environmental stewardship projects to financial literacy through the Girl Scout Cookie Program and cultural learning rooted in Hawaiian values.

Girl Scouts are empowered to grow into confident, capable leaders — whether they’re learning how to paddleboard on Maui, build a robot on O‘ahu, build a fire at camp on the Big Island or kui a lei on Moloka‘i

The initiative covers Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Lāna‘i, Moloka‘i, Maui and Hawai‘i Island.

Girl Scouts of Hawaiʻi is looking for candidates and hiring 12 full-time staff:

• Two on Mau.
• Three on Hawai‘i Island.
• One on Kaua‘i.
• Six on O‘ahu.

More staff will be added if additional schools join the effort.

Girls who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals will receive full scholarships that include membership fees, uniforms, badges and camp opportunities at no cost.

“Girl Scout membership has declined nationwide over the past two decades, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic,” Nāone said. “But we believe Girl Scouts of Hawai‘i has the answer. Think of it like Blockbuster versus Netflix — it’s time to evolve and meet families where they are understanding that in Hawai‘i the majority of families need two incomes and don’t have a lot of free time to volunteer.”

Girl Scouts of Hawaiʻi remains committed to its traditional troop structure, where a parent typically serves as troop leader; however, this hybrid model offers a solution for schools and families without an available volunteer.

Each troop will still need a volunteer cookie manager and treasurer, but those roles require significantly less time and make participation more accessible..

If all 189 public elementary schools statewide agree to host a troop on campus, Girl Scouts of Hawaiʻi is ready to expand staffing and resources so every girl in in the islands who wants to join can be a Girl Scout — with the opportunity for leadership development; hands-on science, technology, engineering and mathematics learning; cultural education; and outdoor adventure.

Visit the Girl Scouts of Hawaiʻi website to learn more about the organization and what it offers or to support the new initiative.

The program’s implementation comes after a federally funded, 3-year research and demonstration project as well as passage of authorizing legislation in 2023.

Eligible electric vehicle owners will have the option to pay a state per-mile road usage charge of $8 per 1,000 miles, capped at $50, or a flat annual road usage charge of $50 upon their next registration renewal after July 1.

Electric vehicle owners can use the Hawai‘i Road Usage Charge Program’s estimator to help determine which option is best for them.

Both options replace the state’s current $50 electric vehicle registration surcharge.

Registration renewal will be nearly identical to the previous process, the primary difference being that all vehicle odometers will be photographed at their next periodic motor vehicle safety inspections.

The state per-mile road usage charge will become mandatory for electric vehicles by 2028, and the program is expected to expand to all light-duty vehicles by 2033.

“Instead of paying based on what type of car you drive — or can afford — a road usage charge means vehicle owners will pay only for how much they actually drive,” said Hawai‘i Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen in an announcement about the program taking effect.

As more Hawaiʻi drivers choose more fuel-efficient hybrid or all-electric vehicles, revenues from motor fuel taxes and other vehicle registration fees have declined, resulting in less funding to maintain the state’s roads, bridges and infrastructure.

The road usage charge is a step to ensure long-term, sustainable funding for transportation.

“It’s a much fairer way for everyone to contribute to keeping our roads and bridges safe and operable,” Sniffen said.

Vehicle registration renewal can be completed using any existing renewal method through each the Department of Motor Vehicles in each county in person, by mail or online.

Visit the Hawaiʻi County Department of Motor Vehicles website to renew your registration if you are a Hawaiʻi County resident or for additional information.

You can also use Hawaiʻi DMV NOW kiosks.

“[Electric vehicle] drivers have long led our journey to a sustainable transportation future. As we move away from gas vehicles, we must modernize how we fund our roadways and bridges,” said Hawaiʻi Electric Vehicle Association President Noel Morin in the announcement.

Morin added that the association worked closely with the state during the past 2 years to develop the program and supports the transition. It’s proud that electric vehicle owners in Hawaiʻi continue to lead the way.

“The Hawaiʻi Road Usage Charge is a fair and forward-looking solution that ensures everyone contributes to the infrastructure we all rely on,” Morin said.

Visit the Hawaiʻi Road Usage Charge Program website for a quick quide about the new program or click here for additional information.

There was just one reported fatality in a recreational boating incident last year in Hawai‘i.

The 2024 fatality rate was a 2% decrease from the 4.9 deaths per 100,000 registered recreational vessels reported in 2023 and the fewest boating fatalities reported since the U.S. Coast Guard began collecting statistics more than 50 years ago.

The nationwide fatality rate was 20.6 deaths per 100,000 registered recreational vehicles in 1971 when the Safe Boating Act was passed.

A verified 3,887 incidents that involved 556 deaths, 2,170 injuries and about $88 million of property damage as a result of recreational boating incidents were reported in 2024.

Fatalities decreased 1.4% to 556 from 564 in 2023 — based on a total of 11,674,073 registered recreational vessels in 2024 vs. 11,546,512 registered in 2023 — while overall incidents increased by 1.1% from 3,844 to 3.887.

Non-fatal injuries increased 2.1% from 2,126 to 2,170.

Alcohol continued to be the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents in 2024 nationwide, accounting for 92 deaths, or 20%, of total fatalities.

“Boating under the influence is not only illegal but it is also dangerous,” said U.S. Coast Guard Inspections and Compliance Director Capt. Robert Compher said in the report announcement. “The effects of alcohol can be magnified when boating in the sun and on a moving vessel. Staying sober protects you and those around you.”

The U.S. Coast Guard reported there were a total of 11 recreational boating incidents in 2024 in Hawai‘i waters, including the 1 fatality — which happened off the east cost of O‘ahu — and 3 resulting in non-fatal injuries.

Hawai’i 5-year breakdown

Hawai‘i recreational boating fatal incident stats

• 2020: 10 total incidents, 1 fatal, 1 death.
• 2021: 15 total incidents, 5 fatal, 5 deaths.
• 2022: 11 total incidents, 4 fatal, 4 deaths.
• 2023: 14 total incidents, 3 fatal, 3 deaths.
• 2024: 11 total incidents, 1 fatal, 1 death.

Seven Hawai‘i boating incidents caused property damage in 2024, with a total of $507,500 reported last year in the islands.

Recreational boating deaths in 2024 nationwide occurred predominantly on vessels operated by people who had not received boating safety instruction, accounting for roughly 70% of fatalities. 

There was an increase in deaths on standup paddleboards. Drowning accounted for three-quarters of deaths, with 87% of victims not wearing life jackets.

Nationwide incident breakdown

Top 5 primary incident types

1. Collision with fixed object: 929 total incidents; 69 deaths; 333 injuries.
2. Collision with vessel: 747 total incidents; 43 deaths; 570 injuries.
3. Grounding: 394 total incidents; 13 deaths; 223 injures.
4. Swamping: 262 total incidents; 57 deaths; 72 injuries.
5. Person falls overboard: 239 total incidents; 138 deaths; 104 injuries.

Top 10 known primary contributing factors of incidents

1. Operator inattention: 551 total incidents; 42 deaths; 294 injuries.
2. Improper lookout: 464 total incidents; 24 deaths; 348 injuries.
3. Operator inexperience: 436 total incidents; 42 deaths; 213 injuries.
4. Machinery failure: 289 total incidents; 13 deaths; 94 injuries.
5. Navigation rules violation: 288 total incidents; 17 deaths; 163 injuries.
6. Excessive speed: 279 total incidents; 26 deaths; 245 injuries.
7. Alcohol use: 244 total incidents; 92 deaths; 192 injuries.
8. Weather: 188 total incidents; 55 deaths; 53 injuries.
9. Hazardous waters: 172 total incidents; 53 deaths; 69 injuries.
10. Force of wave/wake: 122 total incidents; 5 deaths; 80 injuries.

Open motorboats, personal watercraft and cabin motorboats were the vessel types most involved in reported incidents.

U.S. Coast Guard reminds boaters to wear serviceable, properly sized and correctly fastened life jackets, and encourages boaters to check the weather and water conditions before getting underway.

Data in the report is based on incidents that resulted in at least one of the following:

• Death.
• Disappearance.
• Injury that required medical treatment beyond first aid.
• Damage to the vessel(s) or other property equal to or greater than $2,000.
• Loss of vessel.

“We thank our federal, state and nonprofit partners who strive to make the nation’s waterways safer. We also thank recreational boaters who follow safe boating,” Compher said.

U.S. Coast Guard officials recommend all boaters attach the engine cutoff switch, get a free vessel safety check and boat sober in addition to wearing a life jacket and taking a boating safety course.

The full 2024 Recreational Boating Statistics Report is available online.

Act 224 was passed in 2024, partly in response to the death of 71-year-old Bob Northrop, who was attacked by four large dogs while walking to a friend’s house on Outrigger Drive in Ocean View.

At the time, the maximum penalty for negligent dog control was a petty misdemeanor.

“If the dogs had been secured in a fenced area or kennels, this could have been preventable,” said Hawaiʻi County Councilwoman Michelle Galimba, who represents the Ocean View area.

After learning about the limited charges facing the dogs’ owners, Northrop’s daughter, Shannon Matson, went to Oʻahu to testify in favor of the bill. She gathered hundreds of pieces of testimony and involved people from Maui and Kauaʻi in support of the bill.

“I feel like our loss isn’t completely in vain,” Matson said. “This is a bittersweet victory because we won’t know if it worked until the next incident.”

Act 224 establishes the offense of negligent failure to control a dangerous dog including both misdemeanor penalties resulting in the injury, maiming or death of another animal or bodily injury to another person and felony penalties resulting in substantial injury, serious bodily injury, or the death of another person.

The portions of Act 224 that became effective on Tuesday provide a legal basis for declaring dogs “dangerous.” They also establish requirements for owners of such dogs, parameters for rescinding the dangerous dog declaration, and the right for law enforcement to inspect the homes of dangerous dogs if there is probable cause of an imminent threat to a person or animal.

“If a dog is declared dangerous, it’s important to hold owners accountable while also giving them an opportunity to train the dog before it injures someone more seriously,” Hawaiʻi County Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen said. “My hope is that the act continues to raise awareness about the importance of responsible ownership.”

Dogs can be declared dangerous if they bite or injure a person or another animal without provocation. A dog’s breed is not considered when determining danger. After a dog is declared dangerous, owners must:

• Provide their name, address and phone number to the animal control authority.
• Embed and register a microchip with Hawaiʻi County and provide the identification number to animal control.
• Spay or neuter the dog at their expense.
• Follow enclosure requirements, ensuring dogs are controlled by a person at least 18 years old.
• Display a sign on the property warning of the dangerous dog.

The new provisions come after a 20% increase in emergency calls for dog attacks in the state last year. The United States Postal Service reported 60% of the 20 dog bites occurred on Oʻahu.

Those attacks include Hilo mail carrier Kathy Kawaha.

“My experience when I was bitten involved two dogs off-leash,” she said. “The owners were in the garage; I delivered a package but forgot one. When I returned, one dog was visible, and the other nipped my leg.”

Kawaha said in her 17 to 18 years with the Postal Service, it was her first bite, “but dealing with dogs is not new.”

In 2023, a Hawaiʻi Island police officer shot and killed a dog after four unleased pit bulls ran out of a private residence and charged him while he and other officer were trying to serve a restraining order.

Kawaha emphasizes the need for leashed dogs.

“It’s not the dogs’ fault — they protect homes — but owners should keep dogs leashed,” she said. “If bitten, it’s the owner’s responsibility. I didn’t press charges; the bite wasn’t severe, and the dog didn’t deserve to be punished.”

Mail carriers can halt delivery if dogs are unsecured repeatedly. Residents would need to collect mail from the Post Office until it’s safe to resume delivery.

If dangerous dog issues are unresolved, owners may be required to rent a Post Office box for mail.

In the event of a dog attack, carriers are trained to protect themselves using an object, like a mail satchel, and employ dog repellent if needed.

Carriers use tools to note potential dog hazards. A feature on handheld scanners alerts them of possible dangers, and dog warning cards in mail sorting help indicate addresses where dogs may interfere with delivery.

“We try to be cautious, but dogs can be unpredictable and are oddly drawn to mail trucks,” Kawaha said. “It’s safer if dogs are leashed or inside. Their barks are startling enough to give us a pep in our step.”

A supermajority of Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustees on Monday (June 30) approved the 2-year spending plan — which totals just more than $136 million — following extensive discussions to align spending with the agency’s strategic plan.

“This budget reflects our deep commitment to both our beneficiaries and our employees,” said Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees Chairman Kaialiʻi “Kai” Kahele in an announcement from the agency. “Trustees rolled up their sleeves and engaged the details like never before — offering and approving amendments live at the table, line by line, in full public view.”

He added what emerged wasn’t just a budget, it is a clear, transparent expression of shared priorities for the Hawaiian people.

Trustees and administration agreed on roughly 80% of the budget from the start — excluding increases to travel and personnel costs, which include unanimous, board-approved salary adjustments for staff earning less than $100,000, as well as executive releveling proposed by the administrator.

Deliberations centered on building consensus around the remaining 20% — discretionary funds for programs directly supporting the agency’s mission.

“Our board and our administration worked together to move forward with unity,” said Office of Hawaiian Affairs Chief Executive Officer Stacy Ferreira in the announcement. “Our budget reflects our shared commitment to uplifting Native Hawaiian communities and staying grounded in our kuleana.”

Key budget highlights include:

• Office of Hawaiian Affairs’ largest-ever investment in Hawaiian focused charter schools.
• Expanded beneficiary services staff to meet growing needs.
• Strong support for programs led by and focused on Native Hawaiians, such as Ka Haka ʻUla o Keʻelikōlani, the College of Hawaiian Language at University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, and the University of Hawaiʻi Native Hawaiian health program, facing federal funding cuts.
• Pay equity adjustments and increases for employees, many of whom have gone years without wage growth.
• Introduction of 12 weeks paid family leave, setting a new standard among state agencies.

“[Office of Hawaiian Affairs] aims to be an employer of choice,” Kahele said. “We can only provide an excellent level of service to our beneficiaries if we also provide our employees with the support and recognition they deserve.”

The new budget represents more than a financial plan — it is a declaration of values, shaped by dialogue, unity and a shared vision.

“To fulfill the bold goals we’ve set in education, health, economic resilience and housing, we need both strong programs and strong people,” Ferreira said. “This budget ensures we have both.”