Efforts to legalize recreational marijuana use for adults in Hawaiʻi has failed in recent years. So what’s different this year? A new governor who says he’s open to legalization. But before any measure even reaches his desk, it still needs to be approved by the Legislature and it’s unclear if lawmakers are ready to embrace the idea.

Nonprofits help everyone from keiki to kūpuna in everything from healthcare to childcare, to providing shelter, putting food on the table or simply sharing a hot meal. But rising costs including wages and persistent calls for help from the community, continue to be a challenge for many of these organizations, making it difficult for them to survive. How can we help the helpers and what happens if we don’t?

Hawaii has one of the highest percentages of youths using vaping products in the country, which experts say could lead to serious health problems. Lawmakers will try again this year to pass a bill outlawing flavored e-cigarettes. Governor Ige vetoed a similar measure last year that critics claimed was watered down by last minute lobbying from the tobacco industry.

A new year brings the start of a new legislative session. Add to that, a newly elected governor and lieutenant governor, along with several first-time lawmakers. For many it is a fresh start. How will that help the Legislature solve stubborn, lingering problems that plague the state as it convenes a new session?

The holiday season is upon us. It is the time of year for family get-togethers, traditional meals, finding bargains for that special gift and, unfortunately, the opportunity to get scammed. How do you protect yourself? What are the warning signs to watch for?

Rat lungworm disease continues to be a hidden threat in Hawaiʻi. And that threat is growing. The disease is caused by a microscopic parasite with potentitally devastating consequences. New research finds that this parasite may be hiding in more than just your produce. Many in the medical community lack the information and experience to identify it and treat it. From diagnosis, to treatment, to prevention...hear what experts have to say. Plus, a survivor shares her experience and her ongoing recovery.

Maui County Mayor Mike Victorino faces a tough challenge in his bid for a second term from retired State Judge Richard Bissen. In the August primary election, Bissen got the most votes with Victorino coming in second in a field of eight candidates. Both candidates advanced to the November general election.

In November, voters across the state will elect someone new to represent Hawaiʻi’s second congressional district which includes rural Oʻahu (Waiʻanae Coast, North Shore, Windward side) and the Neighbor Islands. Incumbent Democrat Kai Kahele decided not to seek re-election and instead ran for governor but lost in the primary election. Voters have three choices. Democrat and former longtime state lawmaker Jill Tokuda faces veteran candidates in Republican Joe Akana and Libertarian Michelle Tippens.

Voters in a so-called canoe district encompassing Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi and northeast Maui have three choices to fill an open seat in District 13 in the State House of Representatives. In the August primary election Democrat Mahina Poepoe beat two other candidates including Linda Haʻi Clark, who was appointed to replace Lynn DeCoite who moved to the state Senate. Republican Adam Clark ran unopposed in his primary as did Green Party candidate Nick Nikhilananda. On Oʻahu, State House District 36 is up for grabs with no incumbent. Republican Veamoniti Lautaha faces Democrat Rachele Fernandez Lamosao.

Legislative boundaries in Central Oʻahu have changed due to reapportionment. In the new District 38 which includes part of Mililani and Waipiʻo Acres, Republican incumbent Lauren Cheape Matsumoto faces a challenge from a former area lawmaker, Democrat Marilyn Lee. And on the Kona side of Hawaiʻi Island there is no incumbent for State House District 6 which includes Hōnaunau, Kealakekua, Hōlualoa and part of Kailua-Kona. Democrat Kirstin Kahaloa advanced to the general election after beating two opponents in the primary election. She faces Republican Jonathan Kennealy who ran unopposed in the primary.