Hawaiʻi Insurers Hold Firm on COVID Vaccine Policies

Hawaiʻi’s health insurers say they will cover COVID vaccinations for anyone older than six months, despite new FDA guidance that says children and healthy adults don’t need the shots. While public health advocates applaud the decision by Hawaiʻi’s insurers, doctors and pharmacies are predicting a big drop in vaccinations.

Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiʻi Enforces New Law to Combat Discriminatory Calls to Law Enforcement

The new law allows for penalties of no less than $1,000 plus legal fees against someone who is deemed through civil litigation to have called law enforcement on a person based on that person’s actual or perceived race, color, birthplace, age, religion, sex, gender expression or other protected class.

Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

New State Website to Keep Hawai‘i Residents Informed on Future of U.S. Army Leases

According to a new release from Gov. Josh Green’s office, the site will provide updates on key developments involving leases on Hawai‘i Island and O‘ahu and give people the chance to provide their perspectives and opinions on the matter.

Big Island Now.

Native Hawaiian Groups Want to Be Included in Discussions Between State and Military on Training Lands

Native Hawaiian groups are speaking out, calling for change as the military works to extend its use of training land in Hawaiʻi.

KHON2. KITV4.

Kiko Remains a Category 2 Hurricane, but More Strengthening Expected

The National Hurricane Center said in data valid at 11 p.m. Monday, Kiko had maximum sustained winds near 105 miles per hour with higher gusts. Hurricane force winds extend 15 miles from the center, while tropical storm force winds extend 90 miles. Kiko was located about 1,700 miles east of Hilo and was moving to the west at 7 miles per hour.

Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

O‘ahu Headlines

Bills Aim to Ease Homeowner Tax Burden

Two measures meant to offer financial relief to island property owners burdened with high property taxes are scheduled for third and final readings by the Honolulu City Council today.

Star-Advertiser.

4 Facing Federal Prison Time for More Than $1M Tax Fraud

Four people were convicted last week for their role in a conspiracy to file false tax returns and then use Hawaiʻi real estate holdings, banks and trusts to launder more than $1 million from the federal government.

Star-Advertiser.

Qualifications for Public Works Director Could Change

Under the current language, the individual must be a “registered professional.” The proposed amendment would remove this term and instead specify that candidates must have at least five years of experience in an administrative or managerial role, with at least two years in public works, construction or a related field.

Tribune-Herald.

Hawai‘i Island Headlines

Feral Cat Battle Reaches Fever Pitch

A new county measure outlawing cat feeding on the Big Island is expected to become law this week, pitting feral cat advocates against politicians.

Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi Police Department’s Interim Chief Takes Over Command

The Hawaiʻi County Police Department’s new interim chief has officially taken over command. Reed Mahuna replaced acting chief Ben Moszkowicz on Monday.

Hawaii News Now.

Resolution to Acquire Honolulu Landing Advances

The County Council on Tuesday advanced a resolution to proceed with the acquisition of Honolulu Landing in the Puna District, moving it to the full council for a vote.

Tribune-Herald.

$1M Grant Buoys Hawaiʻi Island Health Clinic Facing Federal Cuts

Kumukahi Health + Wellness started 40 years ago to serve people living with or affected by HIV. It now offers a range of services, including Med-Quest patient enrollment navigation, a sexual health clinic, and a syringe exchange program.

Hawaiʻi Public Radio.

Undeveloped Beachfront Parcel in Waikōloa Beach Resort Returned to Native Hawaiian Descendants

27.38-acres of the culturally significant coastline of ‘Anaeho‘omalu Kapalaoa in North Kona will now be permanently preserved, the Trust for Public Land announced on Tuesday.

Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui Headlines

Maui Prep Academy Hit With 2 Suits on Transgender Policy

Two lawsuits were filed Tuesday in Maui Circuit Court against Maui Preparatory Academy related to its new school policy, which began in the 2025-26 school year, that transgender students would no longer be allowed to use restroom facilities, play on sports teams or room with students of the same gender.

Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Nonprofits Want To Help Maui Fire Victims — If They Can Reach Them

Limited communications and continued grief have made it more challenging for nonprofits to connect with survivors who could most benefit from their services.

Civil Beat.

Kaua‘i Headlines

Nāpali Coast: A ‘Biodiversity Hotspot,’ but With Many Endangered Species to Protect

The remote Nāpali Coast, a beautiful region of sheer sea cliffs and lush valleys on the northwestern shores of Kaua‘i, is one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Hawaiian Islands – and on Earth.

Kauai Now.

Pipe Replacement, Road Repairs Scheduled Near Highway in Kalāheo

Lane shifts are scheduled along a portion of Papalina Road in the vicinity of Kaumuali‘i Highway to complete pipe replacement and road repairs within the Kaua‘i County right of way.

Kauai Now.