Housing & Native policy in court: Hawaiʻi residents are challenging the state’s “blood quantum” requirement for Department of Hawaiian Home Lands homestead leases, arguing ancestry-based eligibility violates basic civil rights and can block or strip access to long-term housing. Aviation & travel access: Southwest launched the first regular nonstop service between Hilo and Las Vegas, giving East Hawaiʻi a direct “Ninth Island” connection starting with three weekly flights. Airline loyalty shake-up: American Airlines is ending complimentary main-cabin-to-business upgrades on select domestic routes (including some flights to Hawaiʻi), pushing elite perks toward premium economy instead. Environment & invasive species funding: U.S. House Natural Resources Committee advanced a bill to fund invasive species strike teams, including $10 million annually for Hawaiʻi’s ecosystem protection efforts. Local politics with business impact: The state primary looms amid fallout from Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke’s bribery case, with candidates seeking to replace her. Food & consumer safety: Hawaiʻi health officials issued a recall notice for Sun Noodle Sura Tanmen Hot and Sour Flavor Premium Japanese Noodles & Soup Base. Energy & reliability: State regulators questioned the need for more firm power on Oʻahu’s grid, adding pressure to utility planning. Public services & jobs: The U.S. economy shed jobs in July and revised prior gains lower, a reminder that rate expectations can shift quickly.