Utility Rates & Reliability: Hawaiian Electric is facing fresh scrutiny as the Public Utilities Commission gathers public input on a proposed base-rate hike that could add about $8–$12 a month for typical residential customers in 2027, with further increases in 2028, while residents also press for clearer explanations on storm-related outages. Local Business & Health Compliance: Cleanup is underway at Kaimukī’s Happy Days after a ceiling collapse left spoiled food and a safety hazard; the state and city clarified what’s allowed for limited cleanup. Hurricane Relief Funding: Kauai recovery groups say the island is still waiting on federal disaster relief after Hurricane Lowell, with paperwork submitted but no response yet on a Major Disaster Declaration. Legal & Governance: A jury awarded more than $500,000 to former Hawai‘i Tourism Authority executive Isaac Choy, finding whistleblower retaliation tied to his unpaid leave and termination. Housing Affordability: A Pew study links high housing costs to higher poverty, putting Hawaii among the states where poverty is most elevated by above-average housing expenses. Aviation Premium Push: Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines unveiled new premium cabin upgrades, including Aurora and Leihōkū suites, as they compete for higher-value travelers. Tech & Policy: A “morally binding” AI safety accord signed by Trump and major AI leaders is drawing congressional backlash over whether voluntary safeguards can work. Airline Network Moves: Alaska Airlines’ proposed joint businesses with American are moving toward regulatory review, setting up a major next step for transpacific and transatlantic coordination.