AGP Executive Report

Hawaiian Airlines Dining Change: Starting July 1, Hawaiian Airlines ends free economy meals on many flights between Hawaiʻi and the mainland, replacing them with a pre-order dining program through the airline website or Alaska-Hawaiian app. Local Health Care Update: HMSA physicians get more time to transition into a new fee-for-service payment model tied to the One Health Hawaii merger, with an extension through Jan. 1. Food Assistance Restrictions: SNAP rules are tightening nationwide, and Hawaiʻi is among the states moving to limit purchases of certain non-nutritious items like soda and candy. Public Safety: Kauaʻi police say a homicide suspect, William “Billy” Sinclair, was taken into custody after an ocean standoff near Kapaʻa; on Hawaiʻi Island, police report a fatal pedestrian crash in Kailua-Kona involving a suspected DUI driver. Community & Events: Midsummer Night’s Gleam returns July 18 to Foster Botanical Garden with lights, performances, and limited-capacity tickets. Space & Science: Gemini North on Maunakea captured a new image of the Crystal Ball Nebula, a dying star system.

Healthcare & Policy: Hawaii lawmakers advanced bills targeting youth vaping and set up a program that could help with medical debt, while the state also moved to cover expiring Affordable Care Act premium tax credits as federal cuts loom. Medicaid Fraud: A key warning says Hawaii’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit was decertified, putting $3 million in federal funding at risk unless the state shows it’s stepping up enforcement. Local Government & Public Safety: Honolulu’s interim police chief says he’s ready for another shot to protect the community, as the city continues to wrestle with policing leadership and budget pressures. Energy Costs: Many Hawaii electric bills are dipping in June after earlier spikes tied to oil prices. Roads & Infrastructure: Crews begin emergency roadwork on Daniel K. Inouye Highway (Saddle Road) with lane closures for resurfacing and drainage improvements. Community Health: Hawaii Health & Harm Reduction Center has reopened on Kauai, expanding local access to health and wellness services. Indo-Pacific Diplomacy: U.S. and Chinese military officials met in Hawaii to reduce risks at sea. World News With Hawaii Links: A 7.8 earthquake and tsunami warning hit the southern Philippines; Hawaii officials say there’s no tsunami threat. Crime Update: Police reclassified a Kona pedestrian crash as second-degree negligent homicide after the victim died days later.

Honolulu Crime: HPD arrested a man after an apparent robbery on a Honolulu City Bus, alleging he assaulted the bus driver with a hard object and discharged a fire extinguisher before fleeing with stolen property. Attempted Murder in Kakaako: Police also arrested a 57-year-old woman accused of threatening to kill and trying to stab a 72-year-old resident manager on Kinau Street; the victim escaped uninjured and the investigation is ongoing. Nanakuli Knife Attack: At Electric Beach, a 64-year-old man was arrested after a knife incident left a 54-year-old man and a 49-year-old woman injured; charges are pending. Hawaii Island Crash: A Pahoa man was charged in a fatal motorcycle collision, with investigators alleging DUI and negligent homicide. Local Utilities/Traffic: Hawaiian Electric plans pole relocations along Waiehu Beach Road June 15–July 4, with a partial lane closure expected. Earthquake Watch: A magnitude-4.3 quake struck off Kaʻū early Sunday; no tsunami expected. Defense/Policy: Congress is weighing a push to deploy nuclear microreactors in the Indo-Pacific by 2030, with Hawaii-area opposition noted.

RIMPAC Prep: Philippine Navy and Coast Guard ships tested interoperability with Singaporean and Italian vessels while en route to the Rim of the Pacific Exercise, focusing on communications and coordinated operations. Gun & Sports Rights: The U.S. Supreme Court is set to rule on Hawaii’s handgun rules and major “culture war” cases, including gun ownership tied to illegal drug use and bans on transgender athletes. Disaster Aid Deadline: Kona-low storm victims have until June 15 to apply for disaster unemployment assistance, with weekly benefits ranging from $346 to $868. Kailua-Kona Pier Attack: Police charged a 23-year-old and a juvenile in a June 1 pier assault that included alleged sexual assault, robbery, and injuries. Maui Wildfire Payouts: A mediated settlement agreement clears the way for first Maui wildfire payments in July or August, with claims processing expected to take months. Local Courts & Rights: Hawaii’s Supreme Court heard arguments on whether refusing a voluntary sobriety test can be treated as guilt. Health & Food Safety: DOH cracked down on unstaffed Hilo bake stands, issuing cease-and-desist orders for code violations. Tourism Shift: April brought fewer visitors to Hawaii, but higher per-person spending, signaling a spending-focused travel rebound. Oahu Housing Market: May sales rose for single-family homes while condo closings lagged year-over-year. Homestead Lawsuit: A new legal challenge targets Hawaiian Homes eligibility rules tied to blood-quantum requirements. Community & Sports: Joshua Walker officially starts as UH women’s volleyball coach, setting up a new foundation for the Rainbow Wahine.

Police & Courts: Hawai‘i Island police charged a 36-year-old Pāhoa driver in a fatal June 3 motorcycle crash, including first-degree negligent homicide and manslaughter, with bail set at $553,050. Public Safety: Honolulu police say a moped rider was seriously hurt in a hit-and-run near McCully; investigators are asking for tips. Health & Food Safety: The state Department of Health cleared Ohana Sub & Deli, Inc. to reopen after a follow-up inspection found critical violations corrected. Education & Workforce: UH expanded its tuition-free Hoapili Teacher Pathways program statewide, aiming to move more students into teacher licensure. Culture & Community: Rep. Jill Tokuda introduced a congressional resolution honoring the 1906 arrival of Filipino “Sakadas” and their impact on Hawaii’s labor and culture. Environment: Hanauma Bay closed after a marine mammal washed ashore and died. Local Events: Registration is open for Hoaaina Stewardship Day June 13 at Kahaluu Bay.

Public Safety & Courts: Honolulu police arrested a 21-year-old in a Mililani fatal robbery shooting, while investigators continue to look for two suspects. Waialee Beach Assault: A 19-year-old turned himself in and was charged in the May 30 Waialee Beach attack that left a man and teen seriously hurt; police say more arrests followed earlier charges. Traffic & Infrastructure: The state DOT is moving to fix Daniel K. Inouye Highway after five fatalities this year, including new road-surface work tied to a declared traffic emergency zone. Health & Food Safety: DOH cleared Ohana Sub & Deli to reopen after correcting critical violations. Local Governance: Hawaii County Council approved the General Plan 2045 despite fierce opposition, sending it to Mayor Kimo Alameda. Medicaid Fraud: Hawaii is setting up a Medicaid fraud task force after federal funding was cut. Education & Workforce: Schatz-McMahon deal kicks off the process to extend $46 million for the Native Hawaiian Education Program, and UH/Hawaii CC opened applications for a new Maui–Hawaii Island wastewater specialist certificate. Lahaina Recovery: Atlantis Submarines Maui restarted undersea tours from the Lahaina harbor as restoration continues. Weather: Breezy trade winds and a Small Craft Advisory are in effect, with limited showers and choppier seas.

Hurricane Prep: Maui County is urging residents and visitors to get “Two Weeks Ready” for a forecasted above-normal hurricane season, with emergency alerts and go-bag tips available through MEMA. Energy Help: Maui residents can apply in June for the Hawaii Home Energy Assistance Program for a one-time credit from Hawaiian Electric. Ocean Education: Maui Ocean Center marks World Ocean Day on June 8 with hands-on conservation activities and discounted kamaʻāina admission. Public Safety on Roads: After another fatal crash on the Daniel K. Inouye Highway, HPD is stepping up selective enforcement and DOT plans a traffic emergency zone with added safety mitigations. Health Permit Update: Grace’s Inn in Honolulu is allowed to reopen under a conditional yellow placard after a raw-sewage issue was fixed, though other violations remain. Native Hawaiian Lands Lawsuit: A federal lawsuit challenges the Hawaiian Home Lands blood-quantum requirement, arguing the century-old system is unconstitutional. Volleyball: UH named Joshua Walker as head coach of the Rainbow Wahine women’s volleyball program. Local Crime: Kauai police seek a Hanapepe man wanted as a person of interest after a reported gunshot wound. Volcano Watch: Kīlauea’s ongoing summit eruption set a new record with its 48th eruptive episode.

Medicaid Crackdown: Hawaii is setting up a Medicaid fraud task force after federal officials cut funding, citing the state’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit for failing to secure convictions or even indictments from 2022 to 2025. Statehouse Transparency: A judge ruled Hawaii House committee closed-door meetings before the 2025 session were unconstitutional, reinforcing open-meeting rules. Local Government & Housing: Hawaii County moved forward with eminent domain to acquire land for a Puna road expansion despite owner resistance, while Honolulu’s zero-interest rehab loan program says eligibility is based on income—not an asset cap. Public Safety: After a fatal crash on the Daniel K. Inouye Highway, HPD is stepping up selective enforcement for speeding, impaired and distracted driving, and seat belts. Community & Culture: Waikiki Aquarium kicks off World Ocean Month events, and a new mural at Captain Cook Post Office celebrates the legend of Kua. Sports & Education: UH’s new free over-the-air TV deal with Hawaii News Now starts July 1, and a NIL funding compromise for student athletes failed at the end of the legislative session. Ethics Watchdog: Honolulu Ethics Commission selected Sandy Ma as its next executive director. Courts & Rights: A lawsuit challenges Hawaiian Home Lands’ 50% blood-quantum eligibility, with Gov. Green and the AG vowing to fight it. Police Update: More arrests followed the viral Waialee Beach assault investigation, with additional suspects turning themselves in.

Public Safety: A 36-year-old Pahoa man was arrested after a DUI crash killed a 30-year-old motorcyclist on Kahakai Blvd, with police citing speed, alcohol/drugs and inattention; the highway was also briefly closed in South Hilo after a separate collision. Local Policing: Honolulu City Council set aside $1.8M in HPD budget cuts, while incoming Police Chief David Lazar outlined training, recruitment and community outreach plans. Health Policy: Gov. Josh Green created an independent Hawaiʻi Medicaid Fraud Strike Force after a federal decision affecting the state’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit; separately, the Trump administration halted about $3M in federal funding for the unit. State Law: Hawaiʻi expanded its Family Leave Law to cover qualifying military exigencies, effective July 1. Community & Culture: The Philippine Coast Guard and Navy sent contingents to RIMPAC in Honolulu, while Hawaiʻi’s Kilauea kept erupting with a record-setting 48th episode. Weather/Utilities: Hawaiʻi County crews responded to a water main break in Pepe‘ekeo, shutting off nearby service before planned restoration later today.

Hawaiian Homes Lawsuit: A new legal challenge targets Hawaii homestead leases, arguing eligibility rules limited to people with 50% Hawaiian blood are unlawful; Gov. Green’s office says the program is being defended. Honolulu Budget Fight: The Honolulu City Council passed a $4 billion operating budget, but Mayor Rick Blangiardi vowed to veto cuts to the Office of Economic Revitalization after a 6-3 vote. Affordable Housing Credits: Hawaii County Auditor Clare McAdam says most recommendations from a 2023 audit of the affordable housing credit program are now implemented, with one still in progress. Courts & Open Meetings: A judge ruled closed-door House committee meetings held before the 2025 session violated the Hawaii Constitution. Public Safety & Community: Police investigated theft and vandalism at Waimanalo Elementary; on the North Shore, calls to stop teen violence followed a brutal mobbing. Health & Care Access: Hawaiʻi was selected for a federal Medicaid behavioral health demonstration program aimed at expanding mental health and substance-use treatment. Weather/Surf: High surf advisories and south-shore swell kept ocean conditions rough, with updates on closures and reopening.

National Intelligence Shake-Up: President Trump tapped Bill Pulte, a federal housing regulator, as acting director of national intelligence, replacing former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Hawaiian Homes Lawsuit: Gov. Josh Green says the state will “vigorously defend” the Hawaiian Homes program after a federal challenge to eligibility rules. Housing Permitting Push: Hawaii lawmakers passed measures aimed at speeding permitting for housing, including staffing incentives and streamlined reviews. Tropical Weather Watch: Tropical Storm Amanda formed in the eastern Pacific and is not expected to threaten land, but forecasters are monitoring other systems. Oahu Traffic Fatality: A 76-year-old woman died after a Mililani crash involving a vehicle crossing a median and hitting a tree; speed, drugs or alcohol are still unknown. Local Public Safety: Police arrested suspects in a North Shore beach assault that included kidnapping charges, and a second suspect was also arrested in a Wahiawa stabbing case. Community & Culture: A Kilauea eruption caught a whirlwind on camera, and a Big Island woodworker is turning family history into heirloom art.

Local Governance: Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi says he’ll veto the City Council’s FY2027 budget if it cuts and staffs down the Office of Economic Revitalization, citing an audit that found gaps in OER’s performance but arguing the office still matters for Oahu’s economic development. Public Safety: HPD arrested three juveniles in connection with a masked North Shore assault at Waialee Beach that left a 23-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy with broken bones and concussions; kidnapping charges were added. Housing & Land: Hawaii County advanced a bill to double the share of property taxes going to the PONC maintenance fund, boosting it from 0.25% to 0.5% and removing a $3 million accrual cap. Infrastructure: Moanalua Freeway repaving is delayed, with nightly lane closures starting Sunday (9 p.m.-4:30 a.m.) and work shifting lane-by-lane toward the H-3 overpass. Health & Food: State energy officials revised a flawed LNG alternative-fuels analysis after a spreadsheet error inflated benefits, and DOH issued alerts about possible Salmonella contamination tied to Motor City Pizza bread. Community: The Mamoru and Aiko Takitani Foundation awarded $232,000 in scholarships to 12 Hawaii Island students.

National Intelligence Shake-Up: President Trump tapped Bill Pulte, head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, as acting director of national intelligence, replacing former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard and raising questions about his intelligence experience as the U.S. stays focused on Iran. Hawaiʻi Food Safety: The state Department of Health shut down Grace’s Inn LSY in Honolulu after a sewage backup and plumbing issues, issuing a red placard and requiring repairs before reopening. Local Rescue: Honolulu firefighters airlifted two lost hikers from the Koolau Summit Trail in Moanalua; both were uninjured and declined care after a long search. Hurricane Watch: NOAA is forecasting a 70% chance of an above-normal hurricane season for Hawaiʻi as El Niño conditions intensify. Water/Wastewater Training: Hawaiʻi Community College and UH Maui College launched a certificate program to train workers for cesspool conversion and onsite wastewater treatment, aiming to speed up upgrades statewide. Science from Hawaiʻi Telescopes: Astronomers using telescopes in Chile and Hawaii found strong signs that some exoplanets have magnetic fields, based on wind patterns on hot Jupiters.

Volcano Watch: Kīlauea hit a new milestone Monday, logging 48 lava-fountaining episodes in a single eruption—its highest count yet—while officials warn ash and volcanic fragments can still affect nearby communities. Local Courts & Public Safety: A mental fitness exam was ordered for a man accused in Hawaii’s triple homicide on the Big Island, with the judge citing concerns about danger and penal responsibility. Health Policy Clash: University of Hawaiʻi leaders and lawmakers traded accusations over a bill that would have funded student-athlete NIL payments, with UH saying opponents misrepresented the university’s position. Aviation/ID Headache: TSA charged a passenger $45 per checkpoint after rejecting a temporary paper driver’s license, pointing travelers to permanent plastic IDs or other TSA-acceptable documents. Crime & Justice: A man pleaded guilty in federal court for illegally shipping assault rifle parts from Hawaiʻi to Japan without required export licenses. Diplomacy in the Islands: U.S. and Chinese military officials met in Hawaiʻi to discuss maritime safety and reduce the risk of unsafe encounters. Community & Weather: Flood and high surf advisories were issued for parts of Hawaiʻi as heavy rain moved through East Hawaiʻi.

Hurricane readiness: Gov. Josh Green and Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency leaders joined the National Weather Service to kick off the 2026 Hurricane Weather Outlook and urge residents to prepare early, with a May Hurricane Awareness and Preparedness Month proclamation. Volcano update: USGS says Kīlauea’s 48th eruptive episode is underway, with lava fountaining at Halemaʻumaʻu and an ashfall advisory issued for nearby areas. Local public safety: Honolulu police are investigating a late-night hit-and-run near Waianae Mall that seriously injured a pedestrian in a marked crosswalk; drugs or alcohol are unknown. Health care upgrade: Straub Benioff Medical Center opened a renovated Emergency Department with more private treatment rooms and expanded triage space. Community & culture: Honolulu Museum of Art is hosting “Divine Disruption,” blending Nepalese religious art traditions with pop culture themes through January 2027. Education & youth: Hawaiʻi libraries launched a free 2026 Summer Reading Challenge starting June 1, with prizes including airline tickets.

Hurricane Season Watch: The Atlantic hurricane season officially kicks off June 1, with Colorado State University flagging Florida as the highest risk for a named storm to pass within 50 miles—officials still stress “it only takes one,” even if forecasts call for a below-normal year. North Shore Recovery: Kona-low storm impacts are still hitting Oahu’s North Shore, with Waimea Valley visitor traffic down about 25% to 30% as road restrictions and contraflow keep access tight. Kīlauea Update: USGS reports Kīlauea’s ongoing precursory activity and lava overflows tied to the south vent, with lava fountain timing forecast around June 1. Local Infrastructure: HART received a $125 million federal reimbursement tied to Skyline Segment 2, while HDOT plans overnight repaving delays on the H-201 Moanalua Freeway. Public Safety & Community: Hawaii County will review 13 applicants for the next fire chief, and Honolulu’s Smith’s Union Bar—long tied to USS Arizona sailors—closed after decades. Energy Debate: A letter challenges LNG claims as “clean,” arguing methane and full life-cycle emissions undercut the pitch. Business & Culture: Lawmakers boosted grants-in-aid to $40 million for Hawaii nonprofits, and a ceramic float friendship spanning 46 years recently came full circle between Oahu and Japan.