The state economy's pandemic recovery is largely complete, but growth is expected to slow in the near term and Maui has "a long road ahead" after the wildfires.
The state will retain a 20% ownership interest in the interisland network, which will compete with Hawaiian Telcom.
Housing is shaping up to be a much-debated issue this coming legislative session with ideas focusing on increasing urban density.
Growing Hawaii's economy is a critical issue that should not be ignored, notwithstanding the problems facing Maui, economists say.
The two airlines said the agreement would give consumers greater choice and set the foundation for growth.
Once Hawaii's top international tourist market, Japanese visitors are staying away from the islands amid inflated prices and a weak yen
Section 8 tenants of Villages of Moe'e Ku fear they could be forced from their homes if proposed rent increases go through.
Housing and labor shortages are top concerns when the rebuilding phase begins.
Local businesses struggle to cope as visitor spending drops $15 million per day, economists say.
The Maui tourist hub hosted nearly 1,000 business establishments, most of which were burned to the ground.