AGP Executive Report

Wildfire recovery, again: Hawaii County is tracking a developing storm southeast of the Big Island that could bring flooding rains and high winds as early as Wednesday, with officials warning it may follow a track similar to Hurricane Lala. Lala damage update: Preliminary public infrastructure costs from Hurricane Lala now top $67 million statewide, with Hawaii County the biggest share. Blood shortage pressure: A severe nationwide blood shortage is hitting Hawaii too, with the Blood Bank of Hawaii warning supply can dip to half-a-day and urging more donors. Maui wildfire research boost: UH Mānoa won nearly $5.9 million from NIH to extend the Maui Wildfire Exposure Study through 2031 and expand it to include 800 children. Invasive species push: A federal bill to codify “invasive species strike teams” passed the House, including work led by Rep. Ed Case. Local governance & infrastructure: Gulick Avenue in Kalihi is closed for a yearlong H-1 overpass project, with a temporary pedestrian bridge in place. Health policy fight: AG Raoul joined a coalition opposing a proposed CMS rule that could put Medicaid funding at risk. Environment & agriculture: A new UH study finds invasive deer and goats are reducing forage across Hawaii ranchlands. Public safety alert: A live opossum was captured at Honolulu Harbor and euthanized for rabies testing.

Physician Shortage: Hawaiʻi’s doctor shortage is easing but not fixed. Active physicians rose from 3,038 (2025) to 3,332 (2026), yet the gap remains—down to 18% short of need, with continued departures, retirements, and deaths. Mail Delivery in Lahaina: Hawaiʻi’s congressional delegation is pressing USPS to restore home delivery for rebuilt Lahaina properties, arguing residents are returning to the same neighborhood—not moving into new developments. Data Centers Under Fire: A new national report says 45 data center projects worth $68 billion were blocked or delayed from April to June as local opposition grows, with rules spreading across statehouses. Healthcare Capacity Tech: GE HealthCare is rolling out AI software aimed at predicting hospital bottlenecks up to three days early, targeting bed, staffing, and discharge constraints. Hawaiʻi LifeSmarts: The state is opening registration for the 2026-27 Hawaiʻi LifeSmarts competition, with online rounds starting in October and a state championship in February.

Hawaii Workforce & AI: Hawaii business and community leaders are gearing up for job shifts tied to AI and new tech at the Future of Work 2027 conference Sept. 23, with the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii and the Workforce Development Council focusing on keeping island workers ready and employers competitive. Maui Food Security: Maui Mayor Richard Bissen signed Bill 98 into law, permanently codifying the county’s Food and Nutrition Security Plan to strengthen local food systems and access to culturally relevant meals. Interisland Ferry Plans: Maui County is moving toward a publicly run ferry service to Lāna‘i and restoring service to Moloka‘i, aiming for cheaper fares and routes that depend on rebuilding progress. Invasive Species Fight: UH Mānoa hosts a Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle symposium Sept. 22-24, as the invasive pest continues spreading beyond O‘ahu. Public Safety: Honolulu police are investigating a violent Chinatown stabbing at Bar 35 and arrested a suspect for second-degree assault. Consumer Help: Hawaii’s insurance commissioner highlights a free NAIC portal to help families locate unclaimed life insurance policies.

LIHEAP Funding Push: U.S. Sen. Peter Welch joined a bipartisan group urging HHS to release and fully fund Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program dollars fast, warning winter energy costs can’t wait. Hawaii Elections Worries: After the Supreme Court rejected Trump’s push to block mail-in ballot delivery, Hawaii election officials and civil rights groups still warn of possible voter intimidation and election-day disruption. Kaua‘i Hurricane Lowell Recovery: With power restoration reported at 96% and tourism still reeling, Hawai‘i Tourism Authority urges visitors to reschedule or consider other islands while Kaua‘i repairs continue. Homelessness Funding: Hawaii County finance committee backed extending the county’s Homeless and Housing Fund through 2029, keeping at least $9 million a year flowing to local nonprofits. Healthcare Provider Fight: A letter argues HMSA’s plan is a “no-go” for independent doctors, raising concerns about payment models and practice viability. Local Politics & Outside Money: In Hawai‘i’s 2nd Congressional District, Rep. Jill Tokuda and Sen. Brenton Awa both warn about outside spending shaping the race. Aloha State Remembers Ariyoshi: Former Gov. George Ariyoshi was honored with memorial events and a celebration of life at Kawaiaha‘o Church.

Hurricane Lowell Recovery (Kauaʻi): KIUC says power restoration is at 96% for members, with remaining North Shore outages between Moloaa and Hanalei expected to take “the next several days,” while Wainiha/Haena and Kokee repairs could start later this weekend or next week. Local Housing Policy: Hawaii County again deferred Bill 147, delaying efforts to clarify and streamline vacation rental rules; the next hearing is set for Oct. 6. State Parking Automation: Starting Sept. 23, Makai Garage Lot A in Honolulu will move to automated payments only, affecting most drivers but not those with state parking permits. Education & Youth: Registration is open for Hawaiʻi LifeSmarts, with high school and middle school students competing online before the state championship in February 2027. Public Safety (Hālawa): Honolulu police are investigating an attempted-murder case after a 15-year-old was shot in the Hālawa Housing area; no arrest has been made. Business/Finance: American Savings Bank priced an upsized IPO at $16 per share. Tech & Risk (AI): A fake AI-generated intelligence report nearly triggered a U.S. military operation against a Chinese vessel, underscoring concerns about AI errors.

Hurricane Recovery & Emergency Management: Kaua‘i recovery continues after Hurricane Lowell, with crews restoring infrastructure and residents urged to use caution around ongoing repairs; the county also opened hurricane recovery resource centers and says state staff will help with unemployment insurance applications next week. Local Governance: On Hawai‘i island, a bill to simplify vacation rental rules was again deferred by the County Council, as lawmakers try to align short-term rental language, zoning, management standards, and enforcement. Economy Watch: DBEDT forecasts slower growth for Hawai‘i this year, citing inflation, modest job gains, and fewer tourist days, while construction and healthcare remain bright spots. Legal & Federal Pressure: The U.S. Department of Justice sued Hawai‘i over in-state tuition and financial aid for undocumented immigrants, arguing the policies violate federal law and discriminate against other students. Tech & National Security: A CNN report says an AI-generated false intelligence assessment “almost started a war” after it was used in a plan involving a Chinese vessel. Sports (Local Connection): USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino said he wants “commitment” after Honolulu-born defender Noahkai Banks switched to represent Germany.

DOJ vs. Hawaiʻi Tuition: The U.S. Department of Justice sued Hawaiʻi over state in-state tuition and financial aid for undocumented students, arguing the benefits violate federal law and discriminate against U.S. citizens. Kauaʻi Power Recovery: Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative says power restoration hit about 95% of members after Hurricane Lowell, with remaining outages on the North Shore expected to take days. Sharks Cove Wastewater Link Confirmed: A green fluorescent dye test confirmed wastewater from Pūpūkea Beach Park restrooms reaches tidepools at Sharks Cove, with follow-up water testing planned for bacteria and other contaminants. Hawaiʻi Supreme Court on Exoneree Pay: The state’s high court is weighing whether wrongfully convicted exonerees can collect state compensation and still sue for federal constitutional violations. Maui Emergency Management Staffing: Francis Kau was selected as the new deputy administrator for County Maui Emergency Management Agency, supporting day-to-day disaster preparedness and response. Hawaiʻi Island Boil Water Lifted: The precautionary boil water notice was canceled for the Wai’ōhinu–Nā‘ālehu Water System after additional testing showed no coliform or other contaminants. Ewa Beach Teen Threat Case: A 12-year-old was charged after allegedly threatening a 13-year-old girl with a gun in Ewa Beach; no injuries were reported. Scam Warning: DBEDT and the Hawaiʻi Green Infrastructure Authority warned residents about fraudulent mailers impersonating the agency to push home warranty and mortgage protection scams.

Hurricane recovery and tourism pressure: Kauai small businesses say they need visitors back soon after Hurricane Lowell, but want tourists to come with “aloha and some patience” as power and roads are still being restored and demand remains weak. Local jobs and the economy: Hawaiʻi’s August unemployment rate held at 2.7%, with statewide employment steady and nonagricultural jobs up. Housing snapshot: Maui’s typical home value fell 3.8% year over year to $987,614, while statewide values edged up. Energy and costs: A new report flags Hawaii’s high electricity prices, adding to the affordability squeeze facing families. Environment and conservation: Scientists are releasing millions of mosquitoes in Hawaiʻi to fight avian malaria and protect native birds. Sports with Hawaii ties: Noahkai Banks, born in Hawaii, chose Germany over the U.S., a major blow to USMNT hopes. Climate and reefs: Jason Momoa warns coral reefs are nearing collapse as scientists document a widespread bleaching event.

Hurricane Lowell recovery: Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative says power is back for more than 91% of members, with crews still working pockets from Moloaa to Hanalei and planning next steps for Wainiha/Haena and Kokee. Tourism hit and fallout: Kauaʻi small businesses say visitor cancellations are dragging recovery, while conflicts are growing over Kauaʻi vacation rental refunds after storm damage. Coastal resilience: Hawaiʻi is testing a “living breakwater” to shield coastal roads as El Niño strengthens and ocean heat waves keep the Pacific active. Banking restart: Bank of Hawaii plans to reopen its Princeville branch Friday with modified hours. Consumer scams: State officials warn of fraudulent mailers using the Hawaiʻi Green Infrastructure Authority name to push fake home-warranty and mortgage-protection calls. Public safety: Honolulu police arrested a 12-year-old after an alleged firearm threat in Ewa Beach. Business/finance: HEMIC will return $5M to qualifying policyholders, and the Pacific Missile Range Facility reopened limited guest pass access. Education & campus: UH says all 10 campuses secured 100% of performance funding totaling $6.2M.

Hawaii Politics & Governance: Hawaii leaders are pushing back on USPS plans that would deny service for some rebuilt Lahaina homes, raising fresh questions about how recovery rules affect residents’ daily access. Hurricane Recovery & Public Safety: Kauaʻi remains in the spotlight after DLNR said key areas are closed “for foreseeable future” due to storm damage, while local officials urge visitors to stay away during recovery. Housing & Cost of Living: UHERO reports rising rents are keeping Hawaii’s housing voucher program from helping enough families, adding pressure to an already strained rental market. State Economy & Business: A new “Red Tape 50” ranking puts Hawaii among the most regulatory-intensive states for building and operating a business, a reminder that permitting friction can shape investment decisions. Local Community & Culture: Maui Gold Pineapple Company is leaning on tours and retail to keep operating after the Lahaina wildfire, showing how agritourism can help small businesses endure.

Hurricane Lowell Recovery: DLNR says all Kauaʻi lands remain closed indefinitely, urging people to avoid Kōke‘e State Park and Kōke‘e Road due to widespread hazards after the storm. Housing & Cost Pressures: A UHERO report finds Hawaii’s housing voucher program reaches only about 20% of those who need it, while funding growth is largely absorbed by higher rents. Elections & Ballot Confusion: Hawaii’s Supreme Court-ordered “Republican Party voters only” label on a general election ballot for House District 43 is drawing concern from analysts and the incumbent over voter confusion. Workers’ Comp Relief: HEMIC will return $5 million to qualifying policyholders this year, continuing its long-running annual dividend program. Tourism Safety Messaging: Kauaʻi officials are telling visitors to stay away from the North Shore as crews restore power and clear debris, calling it an “active disaster zone.” Local Business: Hu Guaiya Minipancakes opens a brick-and-mortar shop at CHamoru Village, expanding from its pop-up roots. Public Safety: Honolulu firefighters responded to a Waikiki blaze at Kiki’s Tiki Bar; occupants evacuated safely and an investigation is underway. National Policy Watch: A bipartisan House push aims to curb gerrymandering, with Hawaii Rep. Ed Case involved.

Hurricane recovery and resilience: The Hawaiʻi Community Foundation is pushing out nearly $667,000 in grants to 12 nonprofits through its Stronger Hawaiʻi Initiative, funding response and longer-term preparedness after Hurricanes Lala and Lowell. Food security: More than 1 million eggs are being distributed statewide over nine weeks, tied to a federal antitrust settlement; Maui Food Bank, Hawaiʻi Foodbank, and Kauaʻi’s Hawaii Foodbank—Kaua‘i are among the recipients, with logistics support from the Hawaiʻi Foodservice Alliance and the state AG’s office. State government finance: Acting Finance Secretary Natalia M. Sablan is stepping in to keep the Department of Finance on track, prioritizing CNMI’s 2024 and 2025 single audits and planning for expected fiscal shortfalls. Local governance and public service: Gov. Green recognized UH’s Darren Lerner as Manager of the Year, a DOH nurse as Employee of the Year, and a finance team at HHFDC as Team of the Year. Science and Hawaii: The Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope in Hawaiʻi captured what’s described as the highest-resolution image of the Sun ever taken, revealing tiny swirling plasma patterns.

Hurricane Lowell recovery and local resilience: Kauai’s Nomilu Fish Pond family business is estimating about a $3 million loss after storm damage, as they work to restore the generations-old loko i‘a and hatchery operations. Local government and deadlines: Kauai real property owners have until Sept. 30, 2026 to file for certain tax relief programs, with guidance on online or email submissions while offices restore services after fire damage. State economy and small business support: DBEDT is rolling out free workshops statewide starting Sept. 22 to connect entrepreneurs with financing, grants, export help, manufacturing support, and other growth programs. Community and culture: Honolulu’s Talk Story Festival returns Oct. 2 with “Pride in Paradise,” spotlighting māhū culture and LGBTQIA+ stories. Education and research leadership: UH Mānoa’s Darren Lerner was named Hawai‘i’s 2026 Manager of the Year for leading Sea Grant’s resilience work across Hawai‘i and the Pacific. Infrastructure impacts for O‘ahu shoppers: Gulick Avenue overpass reconstruction begins with a weekday closure starting Sept. 21, affecting access to Matsumoto’s Okazuya.

Mauna Kea Governance: The Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority is taking public input on proposed amendments to the University of Hawai‘i’s Mauna Kea master plan as the state transition for 11,000 acres moves toward a 2028 handoff. Election Law Watch: The U.S. Supreme Court rejected Trump’s push to tighten mail-ballot rules, clearing the way for states to keep using existing processes as midterms proceed. Space Security: The Pentagon publicly acknowledged “on-orbit space control weapons,” a first admission that the U.S. has operational space capabilities—raising new questions after decades of secrecy. Local Science & Invasives: UH Manoa researchers say cooked beef and raw sunflower seeds attract invasive little fire ants better than tuna, pointing to improved surveillance and baiting. Culture & Community: Winners were announced for the 20th annual Kū Mai Ka Hula competition, with multiple Maui, Hawai‘i, and O‘ahu hālau taking top honors. Business & Finance: Hawaii State FCU expanded emergency financial relief for members hit by Hurricane Lowell, while national coverage also highlights the ongoing homeowners-insurance data transparency debate.

Hawaiʻi Housing Costs: A Hawaii construction coalition is pushing a constitutional amendment to lower housing costs by using “RISE bonds” to fund upfront roads, bridges, and water systems—though backers worry the ballot question could confuse voters. Legacy Pollution & Health: UH researchers won a $3.6 million NIH grant to study how plantation-era contaminants like arsenic, lead, dioxins, and “forever chemicals” may still be affecting health today, including whether floods and wildfires can move pollutants into new exposure pathways. Coastal Protection: Hawaii is testing a “living breakwater” off Kalaeloa—60 reef-like concrete structures meant to reduce wave energy and erosion after storms like Hurricane Lowell. Kauaʻi Recovery: One week after Hurricane Lowell, Kauaʻi schools are reopening while about 18% of the island remains without power; KIUC reports power restored to roughly 82% and crews are tackling the hardest areas next. Life Insurance Help: The state’s Insurance Division is promoting a free online NAIC Life Insurance Policy Locator to help families find unclaimed life insurance and annuity benefits. Midterm Voting: The U.S. Supreme Court rejected Trump’s push for new USPS mail-ballot restrictions, keeping mail voting rules largely as states planned. Local Culture & Community: Kū Mai Ka Hula winners were announced after the 20th annual competition at Maui Arts & Cultural Center, and AIA Honolulu’s CANstruction returns with canned-food sculptures benefiting the Hawaii Foodbank.

Hurricane Lowell recovery: Kauaʻi and Lānaʻi tourism and services are still being disrupted as officials urge visitors to avoid the island while power and infrastructure repairs continue after the storm. Disaster aid expansion: Hawaiʻi County is expanding earthquake support at Community Resource Centers, with FEMA and SBA representatives scheduled to help residents apply for aid starting Sept. 14. Local community resilience: Volunteers are rallying to clean up Waiāhole’s Seguin Family Farms after flooding damaged the farm’s water line and crops. Health care gap: A new Hawaii Business Magazine segment highlights how women’s mid-life health issues like perimenopause and menopause remain underfunded, with experts calling for better data and employer support. Housing & finance: A new consumer protection law takes effect Oct. 1 limiting cash deposits at crypto kiosks/ATMs, aiming to curb scams. Business & community: Kam Bowl opened a new Pearl City location, bringing its oxtail soup and prime rib specials to a wider Oʻahu audience. Education: Mid-Pacific opened its first on-campus track and field facility on the Manoa campus after 117 years without one.