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State legislators have declined to pass bans in recent years. However, the Senate is considering a measure that lawmakers and advocates hope can gain traction.

The state could take a cue from the mainland and pair a limited number of gambling licenses with high tax rates on casino operators.

But the House of Representatives may seek a slower wage increase after businesses raised concerns with the Senate’s proposal.

Gov. David Ige extended an emergency proclamation for Covid-19 on Wednesday that will last for another two months.

Lawmakers want the public to weigh in this session on the bills that matter most to their communities.

Hawaii was on the upswing for most of Ige’s two terms as governor, but his most recent speeches reflect more troubled times.

Legislative measures seek to raise minimum hourly wages to $18 by 2026.

The state tourism authority is asking the Legislature for funding to rebrand Hawaii and attract visitors who might volunteer to plant trees, clean beaches and care for taro patches.

A class of student reporters, most of them college seniors, have already produced stories out of the Legislature’s opening day.

House Speaker Scott Saiki and Senate President Ron Kouchi want to direct excess state funds to pay for homeless services and housing initiatives.