In his Labor Day appearance in Philadelphia, President Joe Biden, who proudly proclaims himself as the most pro-union president in history, emphasized the crucial role of organized labor and expressed his appreciation for American workers’ contribution to the economy. Addressing the recovery of the economy from the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic, Biden highlighted …
Governor Josh Green’s bold and unconventional decision in July to suspend certain state laws in order to accelerate housing development in Hawaii as a result of a state emergency is facing further legal challenges. The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawai‘i, the Sierra Club, three local community organizations, and a member of the state Land …
State Senator Gilbert Keith-Agaran, a respected attorney, has announced his retirement effective October 31. He intends to focus on advocating for the victims of the devastating Maui wildfires, as well as supporting his family and community. Keith-Agaran, who represents areas including Wailuku and Kahului, was appointed to the Senate in 2013 after the departure of …
House Republicans are initiating an investigation into the federal government’s handling of the devastating Lahaina wildfire. This comes as President Joe Biden faces criticism for his response to the blaze, which claimed the lives of at least 115 people and destroyed the historic Maui town. The House Oversight and Accountability Committee announced the investigation, with …
The milestone event of repacking operations at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility in Halawa, tasked with removing 104 million gallons of aviation and marine fuels, will commence on Monday. Joint Task Force-Red Hill, comprised of various U.S. armed services members, aims to replenish empty pipelines with more fuel to eliminate any air. This …
A civil rights lawsuit was filed in federal court on Thursday, accusing three Honolulu Liquor Commission investigators of subjecting another investigator to discrimination, harassment, and a hostile work environment based on his sexual orientation and race. The lawsuit, filed by Jhumar Ray Waite, names defendants Jacob Fears, Glen Nishigata, and Catherine Fontaine, alleging that they …
Builders of large dwellings, commonly referred to as “monster homes,” on Oahu may be subject to substantial fines under a proposed bill being considered by the city. The Honolulu Planning Commission has voted to recommend the adoption of this measure, put forth by the city’s Department of Planning and Permitting, which aims to amend the …
Located on Renton Road in Ewa Beach, just across from a charming green bus stop, lies Varona Village. This 24-acre community was once home to 93 one-story houses occupied by employees of Oahu Sugar’s Ewa Plantation. Now, in partnership with the Savio Group of Companies and Hawaii Habitat for Humanity Association, the city is embarking …
The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii has taken legal action against the homeless sweeps in Honolulu by filing a motion for a preliminary injunction. The ACLU argues that the city’s enforcement actions targeting “houseless” individuals constitute cruel and unusual punishment under Hawaii’s constitution. The motion seeks immediate relief from the irreparable harm caused by …
During its initial reading last week, a measure aimed at banning the sales of flavored tobacco products to young people in Oahu received both praise and criticism. The Honolulu City Council unanimously voted on August 9 to advance Bill 46, which seeks to prohibit the sale of flavored tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes and other …