HI Governor Newsroom

Hawaii AG Releases Annual Firearm Registration Statistics for 2025

The Hawaii Department of the Attorney General released its annual firearm registration statistics report for calendar year 2025. Statewide, 19,364 personal permit applications were processed, a 14.7% increase from 16,879 in 2024, with 95.3% approved, 3.9% voided, and 0.8% denied. The 18,451 permits issued covered 44,401 firearms registered, of which 56.5% were imported from out-of-state and 53.3% were handguns. The report provides additional statistics on permit denials, revocations, and security personnel carry licenses.

DLNR Seeks Community Input for Makawao State Forest Reserve Management Plan

The DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) is seeking community input on a draft 10-year management plan for the Makawao State Forest Reserve on Maui. The draft plan addresses the reserve's history, boundary changes, natural and cultural resources, infrastructure, intended uses, and proposed management strategies. Public comments will help guide oversight of the area for the next decade.

Michael Ratcliffe Appointed House District 28 Representative

Governor Josh Green appointed Michael Ratcliffe to serve as Hawai'i State Representative for House District 28, filling the vacancy created by former Rep. Daniel Holt's appointment. Ratcliffe, a labor law attorney, was selected from a list provided by the Democratic Party of Hawai'i pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes 17-4 and will serve through November 2026.

Keith Amemiya and Marie Laderta Appointed to UH Board of Regents

Governor Josh Green appointed Keith Amemiya and Marie Laderta to the University of Hawai'i Board of Regents, subject to confirmation by the Hawai'i State Senate. Amemiya is Senior Vice President at Central Pacific Bank with experience in legal, financial, and education sectors. Laderta has nearly three decades of public service experience including roles as Deputy Attorney General and Director of the Department of Human Resources Development.

Governor Green Secures FEMA Presidential Disaster Declaration for Hawaii

The Governor of Hawaii announced that FEMA has affirmed a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration for the state following severe Kona Low storms in March 2026. The declaration authorizes Individual Assistance (IA) and Public Assistance (PA) for the City and County of Honolulu, Hawaii County, and Maui County. Federal funding is now accessible for state and eligible local governments and certain nonprofit organizations to assist with emergency response and facility repairs.