ÌìÃÀÊÓƵ

It’s early yet, but four people have already pulled papers to run in the race to fill Rep. Derek Kawakami’s seat.

More than 200 organizations have registered lobbyists this legislative session, but it’s tough to tell how they are exerting their influence.

Sen. Kalani English and Rep. Scott Saiki were part of a national delegation looking to enhance cooperation — and perhaps boost tourism.

The medical treatment follows his hospitalization last month for a “stubborn infection.”

Money for Wahiawa General Hospital, Hawaiian Home Lands and University of Hawaii maintenance is also included in Senate budget.

House Finance Committee members expressed concerns about unannounced visits, but still sent the measure to the full House.

UPDATED 4/6/2016: Big Ag has long diverted water to serve Central Maui at the expense of others, and the dispute is outliving sugar cane farming.

If the Legislature approves, it would be the most the department has ever received, but still short of what it’s seeking.

The 14th District representative says he wants to return to the county government so he can spend more time with his family.

The Ways and Means Committee approves 22 measures, but April negotiations regarding the Legislature’s financial priorities await.