Special Report

Pension Promises

Will Hawaii Ever Climb Out of Its $27 Billion Hole? PF Bentley/Civil Beat
Part 1

Will Hawaii Ever Climb Out of Its $27 Billion Hole?

Taxpayers could see important services cut or higher taxes if they have to pay even more for pensions and health care benefits for retired public workers.

Investments: Gambling With Public Money PF Bentley/Civil Beat
Part 2

Investments: Gambling With Public Money

The Hawaii Employees’ Retirement System pours billions of dollars into stocks, timber and real estate trying to secure the best return. But at what risk?

The Health Fund’s Quest for Solvency PF Bentley/Civil Beat
Part 3

The Health Fund’s Quest for Solvency

Public officials search for solutions to one of the nation’s largest unfunded liabilities, the $18.7 billion hole in the Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund.

House Works to Wiggle Out from Under Unfunded Liability Mandate Cory Lum/Civil Beat
Part 4

House Works to Wiggle Out from Under Unfunded Liability Mandate

UPDATED Hawaii Gov. David Ige and senators oppose the plan to return to a pay-as-you-go approach for health benefits, setting up a tough battle to reach a deal before session ends.