DOE Gets An F: Hawaiʻi Schools Miss Their First Local Food Target Honolulu Civil Beat Thomas Heaton January 10, 2025 Original Article The Hawaiʻi Department of Education bought just 5% of ingredients for school lunches from local producers last year, failing to hit its first state-mandated farm-to-school target of 10% for local foods. And that counts purchases of local bottled water. This translated to roughly $4.5 million of the education department’s $82 million in food spending during the 2023-2024 school year for local produce, dairy, ground beef and poi among other staples, according to a report school officials will present Friday to the House Finance Committee. The department’s failure does not come as a shock to many in farm-to-school circles who have for years criticized the approach and speed of the agency’s work to integrate locally grown food into school meals. The mandated increase in spending was intended to ensure children received more nutritious meals and to give an economic boost to Hawaiʻi farmers and ranchers. “I’m really saddened and frustrated but definitely not surprised,” former teacher and farm-to-school advocate Rep. Amy Perruso said. Locally sourced and cultivated dairy accounted for 0.51% of the state Department of Education’s food spending during the 2023-2024 school year. (Cory Lum/Civil Beat/2022) The state tasked the department with increasing its local food spending incrementally, starting this year at 10% and ending in 2050 when it is expected to spend 50% of its food budget on local produce. But the department backslid since the goals were set. In 2022, local food accounted for 6.2% of the state’s food purchasing, 0.8% higher than the latest school year. The report to state lawmakers shows ground beef made up the lion’s share of the department’s total spending on local food, accounting for 3% during the 2023-2024 school year. Fruit and vegetables accounted for 1.83% and less than 1% for poi, dairy and locally sourced bottled water. The bottled water, from Hilo, is offered a la carte for students purchasing school meals in the cafeteria and is deemed a “local processed product,” DOE spokeswoman Nanea Ching said in an email. It is a “creative stretch” to include bottled water in the report to the Legislature, Hawaiʻi Farmers Union advocacy director Hunter Heaivilin said, one that he is certain Hawaiʻi farmers did not benefit from. The department spent more than $40 million on imported processed foods in the 2023-2024 school year, accounting for 56.75% of its ingredients, the remaining 37.82% was spent on imported meat, fresh produce and dairy. DOE officials have in the past blamed local food industry's weak supply, price point, and flimsy supply chains for the lack of progress. Agriculture and farm-to-school advocates have largely rebuked that idea, saying the DOE's School Food Services Branch has been too opaque and inflexible to sell local food to. The department has consistently shown "reticence to pursue public will that has been embodied in state law," said Heaivilin, a food systems planner. To be sure, there are products that Hawaiʻi farmers will not be able to grow competitively or affordably enough for the department, such as apples, potatoes and rice. So the DOE should alter meals to better suit the local food system, Heaivilin said, or it should consider changing the way it reports its progress, so food producers have a greater understanding of what they could grow. "Some of these could be automatic import replacements, some of these could require changing menus," Heaivilin said. Hawai‘i Grown This ongoing series delves deep into what it would take for Hawai‘i to decrease its dependence on imported food and be better positioned to grow its own. Read More Ching said the DOE plans to host forums with vendors to guide them on the department's procurement laws, among other things, to help farmers, ranchers and other food producers better negotiate deals with them across the islands. The department has nevertheless failed to meet its mandated goal this year, casting doubt over the program's success. Lawmakers will have to resolve a discrepancy in laws by 2030 because two different laws — 2021's Act 175 and Act 144 from 2022 — show different targets, one being 30% and the other 18%. Perruso said she's not sure there are consequences either way for the department failing to meet the targets. The department has banked on the development of a centralized mega-kitchen model , based on mainland school food operations and local chain restaurant Zippy's , which prepares food in a central location to distribute throughout each island. The DOE signed a contract for the first kitchen's construction late last year, worth almost $30 million, to be built in Whitmore Village on Oʻahu. With the kitchen, strongly supported by Senate Ways and Means Chair Donovan Dela Cruz , the DOE hopes to iron out kinks in the supply chain on its way to reaching mandated goals. Perruso said the Legislature is also partly to blame for the department's failure to meet the goal, having left the department with just one position dedicated to the task. That role was not filled until August last year, after being vacant for three years. Randy Tanaka, DOE's former facilities superintendent, said he was doing the job himself until he was fired in late 2023. "It's not going to be possible for one person to effectuate that change," Perruso said, so the state needs to intervene to help the department achieve the goals. " Hawai‘i Grown " is funded in part by grants from the Stupski Foundation, Ulupono Fund at the Hawai‘i Community Foundation and the Frost Family Foundation.

Editorial: Many budget needs, but push for Hawaii housing Star Advertiser Star Advertiser December 22, 2024 Original Article Gov. Josh Green has officially released his proposed state budget, laying out would-be plans and priorities for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. The document now goes to the Legislature — which must work with Green to fulfill ambitious objectives, including adding housing, building up the state’s health care workforce and funding climate-related necessities. The governor’s plan is reasonable — and should be palatable to taxpayers, in that income taxes were reduced by notable proportions last year. Hawaii households are projected to have more money in their pockets over the next two years, while Green hopes that adding more housing will hold rental and purchase costs down. He also promised “a big push on homelessness and health care.” As he consistently has done, the governor framed his proposals as oriented toward working families and “vulnerable Hawaii residents” — two very large segments of this state’s population. It’s a warranted and urgent orientation, given that the Aloha United Way’s 2024 ALICE report shows nearly half of Hawaii’s residents are struggling: 33% identified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) and 11% living under the federal poverty line. To build support for the budget asks, Green said he’s engaged with Senate Ways and Means Chair Donovan Dela Cruz and House Finance Chair Kyle Yamashita in advance of the legislative session. The goal: setting up a “collaborative process.” Success or failure of the strategy is a test of Green’s persuasive pull, and will reveal itself over the next few months. If this results in a smoother session, with a measured legislative work flow and few end-of-session pile-ups, the approach would be a model for future sessions. Should logjams and intractable disagreements erupt, however, Green will share responsibility with legislators. A focus on housing is clear, with roughly a third of the spending in each budget year steered toward building affordable housing and infrastructure, and sheltering those most vulnerable to homelessness. Notably, as early indications show some legislative enthusiasm for funding workforce housing — affordable to households earning above the low-income threshold typically favored for government subsidies — the proposed budget allocates $75 million in each fiscal year for a “Tier II” Rental Housing Revolving Fund, supporting development of housing for those earning 60% to 100% of area median income (AMI). Another $50 million is directed to the Rental Housing Revolving Fund, to support housing for those earning less than 60% of AMI. Additionally, $20 million is requested in each fiscal year for the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund, supporting infrastructure investment. The largest portion of housing funding, nearly $150 million, is requested for projects to transform portions of urban Honolulu: $56 million to redevelop the 70-year-old, 364-unit Mayor Wright public housing into a 2,448-unit, mixed-use complex that includes housing for low- and middle-income families; $30 million for the newly funded, much-debated Aloha Homes Program, which will develop workforce-housing towers built on state lands with 99-year leasehold units; and $62 million for University Village, a transit-oriented development near the rail line and University of Hawaii-West Oahu. Another $60.8 million is directed to homelessness programs: $50 million each fiscal year to continue expanding kauhale development, along with contracting for services statewide; and $10.8 million each fiscal year for Housing First and the Rapid Re-Housing programs, homelessness outreach and civil legal services. The state has become a more active partner with counties in teaming up to provide kauhale — self-contained “villages” for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness — with 16 active statewide. Student housing at the UH also gets a nod, with $25 million proposed each fiscal year “to ensure the existing dorm inventory remains active.” Watch for debate on this line item: In January, Green rejected a request for $80 million to renovate a neglected UH dorm that has been vacant since 2018. Commitment to shore up residents’ access to health care is seen in an additional $15 million proposed in each fiscal year for the Health Care Education Loan Repayment Program (HELP), touted as a cost-efficient strategy to build up and stabilize Hawaii’s health care workforce. So far, the program is pulling its weight: In its first year, HELP provided debt relief to more than 900 primary care and mental health care providers who have committed to practice in areas here with a documented shortage of health professionals. Much uncertainty remains over Green’s efforts to find revenue for climate resiliency projects and to protect natural resources; over the extent of funding ultimately needed to settle Lahaina fire litigation; and shortfalls that may develop because of changing federal priorities. It’s now up to the 2025 Legislature to demonstrate collaborative leadership and commitment to resolving this array of looming issues.

Hawaiian Electric sells 90.1% of American Savings Bank Spectrum News Michael Tsai January 3, 2025 Original Article Under pressure to secure its financial standing in the wake of the Maui wildfires, Hawaiian Electric Industries has completed a sale of 90.1% of its shares in American Savings Bank to independent investors. What You Need To Know HEI, which is responsible for roughly half of a $4 billion settlement with wildfire survivors, received $405 million in the transaction. None of the 24 investors, which includes the bank’s executive team and independent directors, owns more than 9.9% of ASG common stock. HEI also retained a 9.9% interest in the bank The transaction drew a favorable response from state Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole, chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce and Consumer Affairs HEI is proposing a $1 billion dollar fund, created by a $4 per month additional charge to its customers, to cover claims related to future natural disasters. HEI, which is responsible for roughly half of a $4 billion settlement with wildfire survivors, received $405 million in the transaction. HEI has already contributed $75 million to the One Ohana Initiative in partial fulfillment of its settlement obligation. “The sale allows HEI to enhance our focus on the utility as we work to help our state recover from the 2023 Maui wildfires and strengthen the financial and strategic position of our company,” HEI president and CEO Scott Seu said in a statement released on Tuesday. None of the 24 investors, which includes the bank’s executive team and independent directors, owns more than 9.9% of ASG common stock. HEI also retained a 9.9% interest in the bank. The transaction drew a favorable response from state Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole, chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce and Consumer Affairs. “The sale of ASB is a significant step by HEI to show that the company and their shareholders are taking responsibility for their financial situation in the wake of the Maui wildfires,” Keohokalole said in a statement released on Tuesday. “This, combined with their stock sale in September 2024, demonstrates that HEI is taking the concerns of the Legislature and rate payers seriously.” The utility previously sought approval to raise rates to help cover the cost of the settlement. The proposal was supported by Gov. Josh Green, who said it would help prevent large rate increases in the future. However, Keohokalole and other legislators resisted giving the utility what they considered a blank check without a clear plan in place for stabilizing its financial condition. HEI is now proposing a $1 billion dollar fund, created by a $4 per month additional charge to its customers, to cover claims related to future natural disasters. “Our concern last session was adding to the cost of ratepayers’ electrical bills without assurances that Hawaiian Electric’s stockholders were doing their part to absorb the costs,” Keohokalole said. “Today’s announcement appears to validate those concerns. It is especially encouraging to hear that the sale is structured to keep local jobs and operations of a local bank in local hands.” Michael Tsai covers local and state politics for Spectrum News Hawaii. He can be reached at michael.tsai@charter.com .

Here's how the state is moving forward to stabilize the condo insurance crisis Hawaii Public Radio Ashley Mizuo July 3, 2025 Original Article The state has started to accept applications for hurricane insurance from condominium and townhouse associations that have been unable to secure full coverage on the regulated market. Last August, Gov. Josh Green issued an emergency proclamation to stabilize the insurance market after condominium buildings were unable to secure full insurance coverage from one of the three companies operating in Hawaiʻi. While the 2023 Maui fires and other global natural disasters are partly to blame — Chair of the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee Jarrett Keohokalole cited a key reason: aging buildings. “When you take your car in for service, there are regular maintenance items. Most of the condominium buildings in the state, especially in Honolulu, are over 30 years old,” he said. “So there are basic maintenance items that in some cases haven't been covered.” These are things like replacing water pipes, which insurers have started paying closer attention to. The buildings that haven’t kept up with maintenance and are unable to secure full commercial and hurricane insurance find themselves “stuck in a downward spiral,” Keohokalole explained. “It's harder to secure loans to make the repairs. It's harder to transact title in the building,” he said. “It's harder to sell and buy. That affects values and it affects the assessments.” That’s because lenders don’t want to loan money to buildings without insurance, but without those loans, buildings are unable to fund the needed repairs. Those who lose traditional insurance coverage have had to turn to unregulated surplus lines that can be extremely costly– sometimes doubling the cost of insurance for buildings. That often means skyrocketing homeowner association fees for condo owners. About 1200 associations in Hawaiʻi are without full hurricane insurance coverage. The emergency proclamation allowed the Hawaiʻi Hurricane Relief Fund to issue hurricane insurance again, which it has not done since the early 2000s in the aftermath of Hurricane Iniki in 1992. Now, HHRF is up and running again. So far, it’s received 80 applications. Jerry Bump is the Insurance Commissioner for the Hawai‘i Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Insurance Division. Hawai‘i Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Jerry Bump is the acting insurance commissioner for the Hawai‘i Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Insurance Division. “It is meant to stabilize the market, not replace the market,” Acting Hawaiʻi Insurance Commissioner Jerry Bump said. Associations applying for the state-administered hurricane policy will need to have a commercial insurance policy, which covers things like fire and other situations. It will also need to obtain at least $10 million in hurricane coverage as a base, but has been rejected by at least two of the local insurers for the rest of their building coverage. The state program will cover up to an additional $90 million of coverage. “We don't wanna be competing against those carriers that are still willing to do business,” Bump said. “If they're willing to write the full coverage, they should be able to still write that. Some of those admitted carriers have kind of artificial caps on how much they're willing to write. We've heard anywhere from $10 million to $25 million is where they're comfortable writing. There are some that will write the full, but not very many. HHRF is providing an additional layer of capacity. And ideally at a price point that is less than the surplus lines market.” The hope is that it will attract the traditional market back to the state as the program did in the 2000s. Bump explained that while conditions are similar to the aftermath of Hurricane Iniki, there are a few differences. One is that Hawaii’s property insurance market is tied to global climate risk. That means a fire in California or a hurricane in Florida can impact the insurability of Hawaii properties. “ Today’s challenges are kind of driven by global reinsurance conditions so not just the storm that occurred,” he said. “Reinsurers themselves have pulled back or raised prices along many coastal markets due to climate-related risk inflation.” Additionally, legislators passed a law this session that would get the Hawaii Property Insurance Association funding to start offering commercial insurance policies to those who have also had to turn to surplus lines. It currently is the insurer of last resort for homes in the lava-zone. Bump estimated that the program would come online around mid-fall of this year. That same measure also includes funding to provide loans to condominiums to do needed maintenance repairs so they can obtain regular insurance policies. Both the state-administered commercial and hurricane insurance programs heavily leverage “reinsurance”. That means that the state’s insurance will only keep a percentage of the actual risk on hand. The state’s program pays other insurers to insure the rest of the portfolio. Those reinsurance rates are largely what will drive the cost for buildings to obtain policies through the state-administered programs. Thatʻs why buildings should not expect the rates from the HHRF to be lower than what they can find on the traditional market. “ The state fund is not in the business of making a profit, so we're not intending to build in any kind of profit in our pricing,” Bump said. “Ideally, as the HHRF enters into the market, that will also provide price pressure on the surplus lines carriers to reduce their price point and be more competitive– they don't want all their business going away to the HHRF as well.” The measure is awaiting the governor’s signature, which is likely as it was not included on his intent to veto list.

Hawaii Filipino Caucus to be honored with “Guardians of Immigrant Justice” award Hawaii News Now Annalisa Burgos April 5, 2025 Original Article HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - The Legal Clinic (TLC) is honoring immigrant rights champions at its annual benefit event this Thursday. The nonprofit provides free, quality legal services, education and advocacy to ensure justice for low-income immigrants and migrants in Hawaii. Among this year’s “Guardians of Immigrant Justice Award” honorees are the co-chairs of the Filipino Caucus of the State Legislature, state Sen. Henry Aquino and Rep. Greggor Ilagan. The lawmakers joined HNN’s Sunrise to talk about their work. Founded in 1998, the caucus has secured funding to support Hawaii’s Filipino community and other underserved groups, expanding language access and other services. This session, they worked on a number of bills to offset the negative impact of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, such as offering legal representation for those in immigration-related proceedings in immigration court, including deportation defense, asylum applications, and other migration relief processes. Due to federal funding cuts and other state priorities, none of the caucus’ proposals passed this session. Yet, they said the need is great amid increased U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, mass deportations, and penalizing policies that separate families. TLC Executive Director Bettina Mok said they have been working on a U Visa resolution for undocumented victims of crime to get police certification of cooperation with police, so they can eventually qualify for green card application. TLC is also honoring the late immigration attorney Clare Hanusz in memoriam. Immigration attorney Danicole Ramos will receive the inaugural Clare Hanusz Award for Emerging Leaders in Immigrant Justice. The pau hana benefit takes place on April 10 at Cafe Julia from 5-7 p.m Ticket information can be found here. Funds raised will help TLC provide free immigration legal services and advocate for fair immigration policies. Donations can be sent here. Past awardees include: 2024: UNITE HERE! Local 5, Dina Shek of Medical Legal Partnership, & Terrina Wong of Pacific Gateway Center. 2023: Amefil “Amy” Agbayani. 2022: John Robert Egan, The Honorable Mazie K. Hirono, & KNDI Radio 1270 AM. 2021: Esther Arinaga, William Hoshijo, & Patricia McManaman. Copyright 2025 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.

MEO installs board members for 2025-26, marks 60-year anniversary Maui Now July 9, 2025 Original Article Maui Economic Opportunity’s 60th-year Board of Directors, led again by Carol Reimann, were installed last month with Mayor Richard Bissen, Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and state Sen. Lynn DeCoite joining the candle-themed ceremony. “The county deeply values MEO as a key partner,” said Mayor Richard Bissen at the June 26 event in MEO’s Wailuku classroom. “They address our housing insecurity, our economic hardship to our citizens, and, of course, many of the challenges that all of our residents face here. “Over the decades, MEO has grown into a trusted network of care, offering transportation to kūpuna, preschool to keiki, and support for small businesses and much more. The county stands with MEO as we take on this kuleana together. We are guided by aloha, by collaboration and by hope.” About 40 community and business leaders, state and county officials and MEO board members and staff participated in the event with retired Judge Rhonda Loo installing the new officers and board. The annual board installation also marked MEO’s 60th year since establishment in March 1965. Board officers for the 2025-26 fiscal year that runs from July 1 to June 30, 2026, includes Reimann, who will be serving her third term as president; Ned Davis, vice president; Cliff Alakai, treasurer; and Reuben Ignacio, secretary. In their remarks to the gathering, Luke and DeCoite lauded the work of MEO and other nonprofit boards in the community. The lieutenant governor noted that MEO assists “the most vulnerable populations” and “that’s why even more so, boards like this are so important because of the role that you fill in taking care of all our `ohana.” DeCoite said that nonprofit boards operate behind the scenes but “are absolutely essential in our communities.” “They are the stewards of mission, the keepers of vision and protectors of integrity,” she said. “Boards guide our strategy, ensure accountability, and they make the hard decisions that keep organizations, not just running, but thriving.” Director of Council Services David Raatz, an MEO board member who represents the Maui County Council, gave a shout out to MEO leaders and staff. “It’s not just MEO’s programs, but it’s MEO’s people that make a difference,” he said. “And as someone who has been fortunate to be a board member for the last two years, I have seen firsthand that everyone in this organization exhibits professionalism, compassion and ingenuity. “There’s things that come up . . . that are never planned for, and they have the ability to pivot quickly, make best available use of resources and serve the community.” MEO assisted 30,500 individuals and touched nearly 55,000 lives in the last fiscal year, CEO Debbie Cabebe said. Judge Loo installed board officers and members with a candle theme, noting that the candle and its light are symbols of hope, remembrance and connection. “The humble candle holds a timeless significance,” she said. MEO’s board consists of 21 members with seven members each representing government, businesses and community interests and those assisted. In addition to the officers, the board includes: Emmanuel Baltazar, Dawn Bicoy, Mindy Bolo, Arleen Gerbig, Cynthia Lallo, Gemma Medina, Caitlin Musson, Crystal Nakihei, Scott Okada, Kai Pelayo, Bard Peterson, Raatz, Adele Rugg, Sandy Ryan, Tessie Segui, Desi Ting and Glenn Yamasaki. From two programs established in 1965, MEO currently runs more than 30 programs that offer diverse assistance for people in need including transport for persons with disabilities, Head Start preschool for low income residents, rent and utility support, youth alcohol/drug/suicide prevention, business planning classes and more. “As you folks all enter your 60 years of service, we reflect with gratitude, and we look ahead with confidence in your continued mission,” said Bissen. “The county honors our continued partnership, and we are rooted in a shared commitment to serve, to uplift and to empower our entire community.” For information about MEO programs, call (808) 249-2990.

Hawaiʻi Shutdown Response: SNAP Recipients To Get $250 Apiece Civil Beat Jeremy Hay Kevin Dayton October 30, 2025 Original Article UPDATE: Two federal judges ruled Friday that the Trump administration must use contingency funds to continue to issue food stamps during the government shutdown. Government assistance programs launched by Hawaiʻi to support SNAP recipients and other residents impacted by the shutdown will continue regardless, officials said after the rulings. Hawaiʻi residents whose November food stamps have been halted by the federal shutdown are eligible to get $250 each from the state through an emergency program Gov. Josh Green announced Thursday. The $42.2 million initiative will fill a gap in food stamp benefits caused by the shutdown and the Trump administration’s decision to not use contingency funds to cover November costs for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. The Hawaiʻi Food Assistance Program will give $250 to every current food stamp recipient in the state — automatically placing the funds on existing SNAP debit cards by Nov. 14. A family of four that has been getting SNAP would receive $1,000, Green said during a media briefing at his State Capitol office. “This will help people because we do not have any guarantees right now that the federal government is going to open again this week, next week, we just don’t know,” Green said. “And a lot of people are going to be hungry if they don’t get their SNAP benefits.” Hawaiʻi SNAP recipients received an average of $343 a month in September, according to the state Department of Human Services. About $58 million in SNAP benefits are delivered statewide to recipients’ automatic debit cards starting the first of each month. Almost 162,000 Hawaiʻi residents get monthly SNAP benefits, Green said. In a sign of how the shutdown is squeezing people, registration for a Hawaiʻi Foodbank emergency food distribution scheduled for Friday in Waipahu hit its limit in three hours after 400 households signed up. Other distributions are scheduled and the Foodbank plans to add more. ‘Kuleana Awakens The Mana’ The emergency measure — one of three special funds formed in Hawaiʻi to soften financial blows caused by the monthlong shutdown — will take effect even if the impasse in Washington, D.C., ends and SNAP benefits quickly resume, Green said. “Even if the federal government gets their act together and somehow resolves their differences, we’re going forward with this because people are really hurting and it’s been a tough couple months,” Green said. The assistance fund is financed by $28 million from the state’s general fund and $13 million in excess funds for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, or TANF, the federally funded, state-managed cash aid program for low-income residents. The state has banked more than $400 million in unused TANF funds over the years. A separate $100 million Hawaiʻi Relief Fund announced Wednesday will help eligible residents with dependent children under 18 make housing and utility payments. That program is open to any eligible resident, including people whose paychecks have been interrupted by the shutdown, not only people who get SNAP. To qualify, a household has to also be below 300% of the federal poverty line; for a family of four, that’s an annual income of just under $111,000. The relief fund is entirely financed by TANF funds. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has also announced a $6.1 million emergency fund for Native Hawaiians affected by the shutdown, including people who get SNAP. About 47,000 Native Hawaiians receive SNAP benefits, according to OHA, and about 5,000 of the nearly 25,000 federal employees in the state are Native Hawaiian. OHA Board of Trustees Chair Kaialiʻi Kahele, who also spoke at Thursday’s press conference, evoked the memory of Twinkle Borge, a Hawaiian activist and homeless advocate who led a large community in Waiʻanae and died in 2024. “Our beloved Twinkle Borge, a fierce advocate for our houseless community, once shared, ‘Kuleana awakens the mana inside us,'” Kahele said. “That’s what we’re seeing today, people awakening their mana, answering the call here to serve.” Full details about that fund, including eligibility and application guidelines, will be announced soon, he said. Program Could Be Extended Green said the emergency food assistance money will benefit the entire state and suggested the program could be extended if necessary. “The monies are going to be spent in our local businesses, in grocery stores and small mom and pop shops almost immediately,” he said. “If we have to, we will come back. We’re not going to let anyone suffer.” The Green administration has also directed $2 million to the Hawaiʻi Foodbank to help support and boost its operations statewide. “I hope to God we’re not still in a shutdown come 2026, because that will change everything for us.” - Gov. Josh Green Green’s move to commit millions to provide emergency funding for SNAP recipients does not include an extra $200 million that state lawmakers set aside this year as a hedge against federal budget cuts. Green would need an appropriation by the Legislature to spend any of that money — which is less likely now because of lower than projected tax revenues — and he said he is not inclined to call the Legislature back to the Capitol for a special session this year. Instead, the relief money comes from state general funds that were appropriated to state departments for various uses but were withheld by the Green administration as a reserve in case it was needed later. “The amount of monies we needed was manageable within our budget,” Green told reporters. “We certainly have adequate monies across departments to carve out this $28,567,000. So, we didn’t need to have a special session, we were able to work it out just in collegial discussions.” Green also observed the Legislature will be back in regular session in about 10 weeks, and can take any further emergency actions that are necessary then. “We’re committed to getting people through the holidays with this resource,” he said, “and then we’ll have the Legislature back in full force, and that empowers us in all sorts of additional ways to bring large amounts of extra resources.” “I hope to God we’re not still in a shutdown come 2026, because that will change everything for us,” he said. Hawaii has joined about 24 states that have sued the Trump administration to force it to pay out November SNAP benefits. That lawsuit is still being heard in federal court. How To Apply For State Aid For more information about either the Hawaiʻi Food Assistance Program or the Hawaiʻi Relief Fund, call 211, a hotline run by Aloha United Way. Green said 250 people are staffing the line from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. The human services department is partnering with Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi to manage the relief fund and application process on Oʻahu, the county of Hawaiʻi and Kauaʻi. The nonprofit partner for Maui County is Maui Economic Opportunity. Aid payments will go directly to utility companies and landlords or lenders, in the case of mortgages — and will not affect income eligibility for other benefit programs. Applicants will need to provide documents including government-issued identification, proof of income and lease or mortgage statements. For more information, Oʻahu, Big Island and Kauaʻi residents can also reach Hawaiʻi Relief Fund staff at 808-521-4357, extension 1, or hrp.mail@catholiccharitieshawaii.org . To apply online, go here. In Maui County, call 808-243-4357 for information, email Housing.utility@meoinc.org or go to this website. To apply online go here. Civil Beat’s reporting on economic inequality is supported by the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation as part of its work to build equity for all through the CHANGE Framework; and by the Cooke Foundation.

This Senator Thinks Trump Is A Danger To Hawaiʻi. He Hopes To Convince You Too Civil Beat Chad Blair July 20, 2025 Original Article Frustrated by what he sees as a near existential threat to Hawaiʻi from President Donald Trump, a state senator wants to raise public awareness of the impact of the president’s policies on the islands. Karl Rhoads, the chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, is planning a series of public briefings at the Legislature to hear from congressional leaders and others. The goal is to get real-time updates from the experts on exactly how Hawaiʻi is impacted by the Trump administration, and to strategize what can be done about it. The first informational briefing is set for July 31 and will feature U.S. Rep. Ed Case discussing nothing short of “the Rule of Law,” as the agenda notice promises. In an interview with Rhoads at his State Capitol office last week, the senator elaborated on his views about how Trump is ignoring the rule of law, especially when it comes to immigration, taxes, tariffs and grants — “The whole soup to nuts,” Rhoads said — pointing to ongoing national media reports on the Trump actions as well as Civil Beat’s own reporting. Among his concerns are the gutting of the United States Agency for International Development by Elon Musk, now on life support under the control of Marco Rubio’s State Department, and the cuts to the federal Department of Education, which Trump wants to abolish. Can Trump, Rhoads asks, legally shut down entire programs created or funded by Congress, a separate branch of government? “Now you might be able to downsize it,” he said. “And I think the Trump guys are slowly figuring it out that they can. I mean, they’re pushing the boundaries at every point they can. They’re bleeding them to death, basically.” Adding to his frustration is that, while the courts have frequently blocked many of Trump’s actions, extensive damage has already been done. Rhoads is also baffled by the U.S. Supreme Court’s response on several Trump initiatives, including appearing sympathetic to challenging birthright citizenship. “Even if the courts come back and say, ‘No, you shouldn’t have done that,’ it’s too late, because everybody who worked there has been out of a job for four or six months or whatever it turns out to be at that point,” said Rhoads. It will take organizations years to recreate the same expertise that was lost with all the firings and layoffs, he said. “A lot of them probably won’t come back because they’re like, ‘What’s to keep Trump from doing that again?’” Law And Politics As judiciary chair, Rhoads knows well the responsibility and authority of the courts. His committee evaluates nominations of judges and justices. His education and professional career are also rooted in the law. Rhoads holds a law degree from George Washington University and was a summer clerk for a U.S. Intermediate Court of Appeals judge and practiced law for two years. He also understands how other branches of the federal government work, and he understands politics. Before coming to Hawaiʻi, Rhoads served as a legislative assistant for U.S. Rep. Eliot Engle of New York, as a legislative aide to former U.S. Rep. Louise Slaughter of New York and as an intern for former U.S. Sen. John Kerry of Massachusetts. Rhoads is not shy about his disdain for the current occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. “Proudly a ‘never-Trumper’,” he said. “From the very moment he set foot on the stage, I was like, ‘He’s a joke’.” Rhoads is well aware that politics has always been “a rough and tumble sport,” as he puts it. Where the country is under Trump, he says, is in many ways a “logical conclusion” from the ugly fights that were going on in the 1990s, like the savaging of Hillary Clinton and her proposal for universal health care and the rise of Newt Gingrich and his slash-and-burn Contract with America manifesto on government reform. But what has transpired over the past six months, in Rhoads’s view, is at a different level, and he worries how it will hurt Hawaiʻi. “As judiciary chair, I’m interested primarily in the legal aspect of it,” he said. “The ‘big ugly bill’ is probably the biggest thing that will affect us. I’ve been told already that 47,000 people will lose Medicaid under Med-QUEST coverage. That’s like the size of my entire district.” To Rhoads, everything that Trump and his team want is “completely opposed” to what Hawaiʻi stands for. His outspokenness has not gone unnoticed. Rhoads received threats for pushing an assault-weapons ban at the Legislature last session, a measure that was scuttled by local politics. At the beginning of session, in January, he also received a call from someone claiming to work for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. “You have no idea what we do for a living,” said the caller, who had a Southern California area code. “You are wholly uneducated on the subject, and maybe you should just focus on the potholes in your district, which are atrocious, and on the level with a Third World country.” Rhoads, who kept that recording and others, said the threats are being investigated by the Attorney General’s Office. Shedding Light Rhoads’ thinks his info briefings, which will be held through the legislative interim, can shed light on critical issues of the day by inviting experts to share what they know and letting lawmakers like him ask questions. No public testimony will be allowed. Other briefings from Rhoads and his committee will examine democratic erosion in other countries. He also would like to bring in Attorney General Anne Lopez or her staff. Rhoads said there is little the Legislature can do about Trump, except for making changes to budget funding and local taxes to cover any cuts. But that does not appear to be a priority for now. Gov. Josh Green and Senate leadership said this month they don’t think a special session will be needed. House Speaker Nadine Nakamura said in an email statement Friday that lawmakers have reserved potential dates for a special session, “but it will not be clear whether we need one until the scope of federal budget cuts are clear.” The deadline for that budget is Sept 30. In the meantime, Rhoads praises Lopez and other Democratic attorneys general for successfully challenging Trump in court on some issues. Just last week Hawaiʻi joined a coalition of 24 states and the District of Columbia suing the administration over its “unconstitutional, unlawful, and arbitrary decision” to freeze billions in federal funding just weeks before the school year in Hawaiʻi is set to start. “I want people to realize that what the federal administration is doing does have an impact on Hawaiʻi,” said Rhoads. “Sometimes people sort of feel like, ‘Yeah, you know, it’s all happening in Washington. Nothing’s going to change.’ It’s just not true. It’s taken a bite out of our budgets.” Ultimately, it’s the courts and Congress that are the first line of defense against this White House. But that doesn’t mean everyone else should just do nothing, Rhoads said. “I think everybody who views Trump as a threat to democracy has to do their part, and that’s why I’m working on this stuff,” he said. “I realize being a state senator from Hawaiʻi in the broad scheme of things isn’t that big a deal, but everybody has to do their part.” Civil Beat’s reporting on the Hawaiʻi State Legislature is supported in part by the Donald and Astrid Monson Education Fund.

Here’s How A Second Trump Term May Impact Hawaiʻi Police Civil Beat Madeleine Valera January 1, 2025 Original Article President-elect Donald Trump described himself as the “law-and-order” candidate during his campaign and promised to do things like expand the death penalty, deploy the National Guard to quell civil unrest and increase liability protections for police. His pro-police, tough-on-crime stance is likely good news for morale and recruitment efforts, according to officials and experts. But civil rights activists fear that his policies could set back criminal justice reform efforts, and that his promise to deport undocumented immigrants could have a negative impact on public safety. While many policing policies are decided at the state and county levels, Trump’s decisions could directly affect issues such as the availability of federal grant opportunities for local police departments, according to Jillian Snider, adjunct lecturer at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York. His statements about police and criminal justice issues can also set the tone for the entire nation. “Right now, police officers across the country are pretty disheartened, and we’ve seen recruitment and retention are suffering,” she said. “So I think having a president in place that vocally expresses his admiration and appreciation for law enforcement will be really good for the job on the whole.” Law enforcement officials aren’t sure how local police departments will be affected during President-elect Donald Trump’s second term. While he can’t directly impact policies and procedures for local departments, his agenda and rhetoric could set the tone departments around the country. (David Croxford/Civil Beat/2024) Trump’s actions during his first term shed light on his attitude toward law enforcement. For example, he rescinded a President Barack Obama-era executive order prohibiting local police departments from acquiring military equipment and deployed soldiers to help local police quell protests. Recruitment and Retention In Trump’s “Plan to End Crime and Restore Law and Order ” released in February 2023, the president-elect said he would invest in hiring, retention and training for police officers at record levels, though he didn’t specify how much he would invest or how he would impact hiring. Members of his transition team did not respond to emails seeking comment for this story. Honolulu police Chief Joe Logan has said recruitment is his top priority as the department suffers an ongoing staffing shortage and is down around 400 officers. Honolulu police Chief Joe Logan has said his top priority is recruitment as his department deals with an ongoing staffing shortage of around 400 officers. Experts say Trump’s rhetoric and general positive attitude toward police could boost morale and attract more people to the profession, though it’s unclear if that will happen in Hawaii. (Kevin Fujii/Civil Beat/2024) Snider, a retired New York City police officer, said it’s difficult to say if Trump’s administration will be able to help recruitment efforts, though she said his rhetoric and general attitude toward police could boost morale and interest in the profession. Since 2020, police staffing levels have dropped across the country, a phenomenon many law enforcement officials attribute in part to the Covid-19 pandemic as well as the killing of George Floyd and ensuing Black Lives Matter movement, which increased public scrutiny of police actions. Last year, staffing levels for departments nationwide were up for the first time since 2020, though only by 0.4% , according to a survey by the Police Executive Research Forum. The president can’t do much to directly impact recruitment at local levels, but, Snider said she expects Trump’s administration will be supportive of any legislative efforts to increase hiring. One bipartisan bill introduced in Congress last year, the VICTIM Act , would establish a grant program to help local jurisdictions with their clearance rates for violent crime by providing funds for them to hire more detectives and investigators, she said. Staffing levels at police departments across the country have been declining since 2020. Trump has promised to increase the hiring of police officers nationwide, though he has not specified how.(David Croxford/Civil Beat/2024) The bill was referred to the House Judiciary Committee, but Snider said she expects it to be reintroduced next session and it may advance if Trump supports it. During the campaign, Trump was endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, one of the most influential law enforcement lobbies in the U.S. He responded by pledging strong support for police and expanded use of force. “We have to get back to power and respect,” he said in September. The State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers did not endorse a candidate for president. Federal Grants Local police departments receive millions of dollars each year in federal grants, and Snider said Trump’s administration is likely to impose more accountability over the process. In fiscal year 2023, the Honolulu Police Department received around $7.7 million in federal grant money, including an $800,000 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant for a virtual reality training program on de-escalation. The Honolulu Police Department received around $7.7 million in federal grant money in fiscal year year 2023, including an $800,000 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant for virtual reality de-escalation training. (David Croxford/Civil Beat/2023) Last fiscal year, agencies around the state, including county police departments and prosecutors offices, the state Attorney General’s Office, the Domestic Violence Action Center and the University of Hawaiʻi, received $19.8 million in federal justice grants for things like substance abuse treatment for prisoners, school violence programs and mentoring for children of incarcerated parents. When asked at a December Honolulu Police Commission meeting how he thinks federal grants will be impacted under the new administration, Logan said he wasn’t sure because even though Trump seems to “friendly” toward law enforcement, the president-elect also places a strong emphasis on fiscal responsibility. Trump has said he plans to create a Department of Government Efficiency headed by Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, founder of the pharmaceutical company, Roivant Sciences, to cut government spending and restructure federal agencies, including the Department of Justice. “I don’t think we’re going to see reduced funding for law enforcement, but I just think we’re going to see more accountability for the funding that law enforcement is provided with,” Snider said. Immigrant Worries The American Civil Liberties Union Hawaii said Trump’s promise to deport millions of undocumented immigrants could push some further underground and prevent them from cooperating with police due to concern about themselves or family members. Gov. Josh Green has said the state’s National Guard will not be used to help with federal deportations and has promised to do all he can to keep immigrant families in Hawaii together. But still, the threats from the Trump administration alone can be enough to instill fear in people and drive them underground, said Carrie Ann Shirota, policy director for the ACLU of Hawaii. “The idea about community policing is to build more trust with communities that often are the most under-resourced and more likely to be policed,” she said. “So these measures at the federal level undermine the very principals of community policing.” Police Reform Criminal justice reform advocates have also expressed concern about the potential impact of Trump’s support for policies like the death penalty, longer prison sentences for convicted criminals and stop and frisk , a police practice in which an officer can stop a person and pat them down if they suspect he or she is carrying a weapon. Hawaiʻi abolished capital punishment in 1957, two years before statehood, but Hawaii residents convicted of federal crimes can still face the death penalty. Trump has promised to expand certain rights for gun owners, for example passing a nationwide concealed carry reciprocity law that would allow gun owners with concealed carry permits to travel to every state, even those like Hawaiʻi that don’t honor out-of-state permits. State Sen. Karl Rhoads, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said he doesn’t know how much further the Trump administration will be willing to go. A 2022 Supreme Court ruling known as the Bruen decision already opened the door for Hawaii gun owners to be able to carry their weapons in public. More extreme laws that would weaken background checks and make it easier for people to buy guns would be extremely unpopular with a majority of Americans, he said. “I don’t think he really wants to go any farther because it’s bad politics and it’s bad policy,” he said. Nearly 10,000 people joined a Black Lives Matter march at the Hawaii State Capitol in 2020. Civil rights advocates worry that another Trump administration will bring more police violence against protesters. (Cory Lum/Civil Beat/2020) Members of the ACLU of Hawaii are worried Trump might rescind a 2022 executive order issued by President Joe Biden aimed at advancing accountability in policing and boosting public trust in police departments. The order includes mandates to increase use of force and implicit bias training for state and local departments and restricts law enforcement from buying certain types of military equipment, such as armored vehicles, weaponized drones and long-range acoustic devices. Trump’s support of military gear for police departments as well as his use of soldiers to crack down on protesters during his first term, makes advocates nervous about the potential for police violence in the coming years, Shirota said. “The use of military weapons and equipment can certainly increase excessive force outcomes and possibly even deadly outcomes,” she said. Supporters of police and protesters faced off outside Honolulu District Court in July 2021 during a preliminary hearing for three officers charged in connection with the fatal shooting of 16-year-old Iremamber Sykap. Members of the ACLU Hawaii fear Trump’s return to office could mean a weakening of police accountability. (Ronen Zilberman/Civil Beat/2021) A bill that would have prohibited police from acquiring military gear and using certain types of equipment, such as bean bag projectiles and tear gas, on protesters was introduced in the Hawaii Legislature in 2022. It was referred to the Judiciary Committee, but it didn’t advance. Meanwhile, Trump’s own felony convictions could also undermine his purported commitment to uphold the rule of law, Rhoads said. The Senate judiciary chair said he doesn’t know of any plans to reintroduce the military equipment bill in the upcoming session, or any other bills aimed at reducing the potential effects of future Trump policies. Lawmakers may be waiting to see what his first year back in office brings before figuring out what actions to take, he said. “We don’t know what he’s going to do,” he said. “Some promises he keeps and some of them he doesn’t, and what the net effect is going to be for Hawaii and the country I just don’t know.”

Strengthening Hawai'i's Food Security: A Call To Action Honolulu Civil Beat Lauren Zirbel January 28, 2025 Original Article Hawai‘i is the most remote populated place on the planet, making it one of the most vulnerable locations in the world when it comes to food security. The food insecurity crisis has already reached a critical level, with nearly one in three residents experiencing food insecurity. On Hawai‘i island, this rises to an alarming 40%. A single natural disaster or global economic shock could disrupt access to food and essential supplies, underscoring the urgency of addressing our lack of food supply chain resilience. The Legislature must prioritize bold initiatives in 2025 to tackle this crisis before it is too late. One essential step toward resilience is supporting local food production, processing, and storage through targeted tax incentives and streamlined regulations. Proposed legislation focuses on: Establishing refundable tax credits for businesses that invest in food and beverage supply chain infrastructure, such as storage facilities, processing plants and distribution systems. Streamlining permitting processes to reduce unnecessary delays and costs for critical food system projects. These measures are designed to reduce Hawai‘i’s dependence on imports, stabilize food costs and ensure the state is prepared for emergencies. Local businesses already face steep challenges, including some of the highest electricity, shipping and labor costs in the nation. Many companies have opted to shift production to the mainland due to Hawai‘i’s crushing regulatory and tax burdens, leaving the state without critical local food infrastructure. Addressing these barriers will empower local producers, improve food security, and generate economic growth. The vast majority of states already recognize that taxing groceries is regressive. Hawai‘i is one of only a handful of states that still taxes them at the full rate, disproportionately impacting low- and middle-income households. Families here face some of the highest living costs in the nation, and taxing essential items like food only worsens the financial strain. Research highlights the impact: A 1% increase in grocery taxes raises food insecurity among low-income families by 0.84%. States that exempt groceries see lower rates of food insecurity, creating a fairer and more equitable environment for families. Georgia’s elimination of its grocery tax in the 1990s shows the potential economic benefits of such a move. By 2021, the policy had saved households $691.4 million, created over 18,000 jobs, and generated $1.45 billion in economic activity. Hawai‘i can follow this model to provide relief for struggling families while driving economic growth. Food insecurity affects nearly one in three residents in Hawai‘i, with rates climbing to 40% on Hawai‘i Island. Regular delays and high taxes increase operational costs and drive up prices. If the state is serious about doubling local food production, bold action is required. Under the current system, many businesses are opting to leave the state. Eliminating grocery taxes and investing in local food infrastructure would: Provide immediate financial relief to families. Enable local farmers, processors, and distributors to expand their operations. Build a resilient food system capable of withstanding natural disasters and economic disruptions. These critical initiatives are championed by a dedicated coalition of leaders. In the Senate, Sen. Carol Fukunaga, Lynn DeCoite, Stanley Chang, Kurt Fevella, Angus McKelvey and Mike Gabbard are driving these efforts. In the House, Reps. Kirstin Kahaloa, Greggor Ilagan, Rachele Lamosao, Della Au Belatti, Cory Chun, Tina Grandinetti, Jeanné Kapela, Darius Kila, Lisa Kitagawa, Nicole Lowen, Tyson Miyake, Dee Morikawa, Ikaika Olds, Amy Perruso, Mahina Poepoe, Sean Quinlan, Jeanna Takenouchi, Chris Todd, Elle Cochran, Trish La Chica and Adrian Tam are leading the charge. Addressing our food security crisis isn’t just about solving today’s challenges — it’s about safeguarding Hawai‘i’s future. Removing grocery taxes will ease the financial burden on families, while targeted investments in local food infrastructure will make the state more self-sufficient and disaster-ready. These measures reflect the values of aloha and community that define Hawai‘i. Mahalo nui to the legislators who are taking bold steps to create a stronger, healthier Hawai‘i. Your leadership is critical to ensuring that our islands can thrive in the face of future challenges.

City, state closer to condemning Wahiawa property known for illegal activity Hawaii News Now Lynn Kawano August 27, 2025 Original Article HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - A homeless man was killed Sunday after being attacked by a pack of dogs at an encampment in Wahiawa. The property at 525 Avocado Street overlooks Lake Wilson. It has been a source of community outrage, and lawmakers were already moving to condemn the lot and demolish the two, hollowed-out structures and container on site. “It’s been neglected for years and years,” said Peter Schmall. “I’ve lived in Wahiawa for 20 years and it’s been a constant problem.” The property is near a busy intersection with Kamehameha Highway and is a visible nuisance. When Hawaii News Now was at the location, multiple people were inside and started boarding up the windows. The unidentified man who was mauled by his five dogs this week was treated and transported to a hospital by Honolulu Emergency Medical Services, but died from his injuries. In 2020, police raided the place and said it housed a game room. A city council resolution to demolish the structures is moving forward and will be before the full council in September. The state has also been working to condemn the property. “It’s a public safety concern,” said state Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz, who represents the area. The state wants to eventually use the property as a substation for the Department of Land and Natural Resources because it is along the lake. “In 2023, we added over $1 million in capital improvement money so we could purchase the property,” Dela Cruz said. According to the lawmaker, the state has been trying to work with the landowner so that it could be sold. But Dela Cruz said the owner has refused, “which is why we’re going on the condemnation route.” City Council member Matt Weyer, who represents parts of Wahiawa, said the city has also “struggled” with communication. “That’s really the concern, that the land owner isn’t being responsive enough,” he said. County records list Yiu Wai Lam as the at-will manager. That is the same name as the person arrested on the property during the game room raid. His current address is a home in Kalihi Valley. Hawaii News Now went to the home, but no one answered and a neighbor said they were not home. Weyer said the city and state are working together to get the property cleared for use by both agencies. “The demolition of these structures is really the first step in moving forward,” he said. The Hawaiian Humane Society took the dogs involved in the fatal attack this week. “The Honolulu Police Department called our teams and asked for assistance,” said Brandy Shimabukuro, the agency’s communications manager. “Three of the dogs, when they were brought into our care, could not be safely handled by our staff and that posed an immediate public safety risk, so we had to move forward with a humane euthanasia,” she said. Shimabukuro said that is necessary because the agency cannot adopt out a dangerous animal. The other two dogs are still being evaluated.

Hawaii bill would subsidize fencing to control ungulates Star Advertiser Michael Brestovansky Hawaii Tribune-Herald February 18, 2025 Original Article A proposal to help subsidize the installation of animal control fences is the only survivor of four bills in the state Legislature aimed at controlling pigs, goats and sheep. Senate Bill 523, co- introduced by Kohala Sen. Tim Richards and Puna Sen. Joy San Buenaventura, would require the state Department of Agriculture to establish a biosecurity fencing cost-sharing program that would reimburse farmers up to a certain percentage of the cost of installing animal control fences. As currently written, farmers who can demonstrate their active agricultural operations and have developed an “approved conservation plan” can apply to have “not less than 50%” of fencing expenses reimbursed. The bill currently has a blank spot where an upper reimbursement limit per person would be established. Similarly, it does not yet specify what the program’s total yearly budget would be. “People are afraid to go into their own backyards,” said San Buenaventura. “But the fencing cost per acre is huge.” Bob Duerr, commissioner on the Big Island Game Management Advisory Commission, said the cost of fencing can reach $1 million per mile in some places. He added that fences have proved to be effective for animal management, driving problem animals from areas with fences to areas without. “Large swaths of mauka lands in the hands of federal, state and private landowners are fenced and game animals eradicated,” Duerr said. However, Duerr said, this also has interfered with hunters, who can no longer rely on access to their common hunting grounds. “Hunting game animals for food is an effective population control that is disappearing,” Duerr said. “Fencing with access corridors is a must for game management.” Other pig-related bills have failed to move through the Legislature. Another San Buenaventura bill, SB 315, died Wednesday when two Senate committees deferred the measure. That bill would have expedited the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ permitting process to allow for the destruction of feral pigs on private land, if the animals have caused or are likely to cause substantial damage to crops. House Bill 347, which would have prohibited the DLNR from establishing bag limits for goats in public hunting areas, also was deferred earlier this month, and a companion bill in the Senate hasn’t moved at all since being introduced. Finally, Senate Bill 568 would have designated the DLNR as the state’s primary agency for trapping feral goats and sheep, and would require it to establish a program to humanely manage feral animal populations. That bill also has failed to move at all since its introduction, to Duerr’s chagrin. “Though looking like having no chance of passing, this bill puts its finger on the game animal problem’s pulse,” Duerr said. “No one is responsible for the conservation and control of game animals in the state of Hawaii. At GMAC we have only seen DLNR talk about eradication, which means fencing tens of thousands of acres and killing all the ‘invasive’ game animals within. “For years now at GMAC, we have not seen DLNR nuisance animal population studies or game management plans for problems beyond fence and kill.”