States, Cities and Counties
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States, Cities and Counties
Featured Stories
Tourism Department boosts rural tourism development through cooperative marketing grant program
SANTA FE, New Mexico, Aug. 2 -- The New Mexico Department of Tourism issued the following news release:
* * *
Tourism Department boosts rural tourism development through cooperative marketing grant program
*
SANTA FE - At a time where more US travelers are shifting towards shorter-duration and lower-cost trips, the Land of Enchantment is primed to capitalize on these noteworthy travel trades through the New Mexico Tourism Department's Cooperative Marketing Grant Program.
According to the US Travel Association, American travelers continue to prioritize travel but with a shift towards regional ... Show Full Article SANTA FE, New Mexico, Aug. 2 -- The New Mexico Department of Tourism issued the following news release: * * * Tourism Department boosts rural tourism development through cooperative marketing grant program * SANTA FE - At a time where more US travelers are shifting towards shorter-duration and lower-cost trips, the Land of Enchantment is primed to capitalize on these noteworthy travel trades through the New Mexico Tourism Department's Cooperative Marketing Grant Program. According to the US Travel Association, American travelers continue to prioritize travel but with a shift towards regionaland drive markets in response to growing travel-related costs.
Tourism offers one of the most effective forms of economic development for rural communities, which is why NMTD is dedicating over two-thirds of its grant funds to rural destinations in FY27, totaling $2,631,150.
"Knowing there remains a strong desire for travel during otherwise uncertain times, New Mexico has reason to be optimistic for promoting tourism," said Acting Tourism Secretary Lancing Adams. "By pooling resources for tourism promotion through the Cooperative Marketing Grant Program, we're empowering ourselves to capitalize on this opportunity.
In total, NMTD is granting $3,854,324 to 48 tourism-related organizations to support more localized tourism promotion campaigns. NMTD is again implementing a 2-to-1 cost share model, meaning the department is committing $2 in grant funding for every $1 committed by the recipient. The total media value created by this program for FY27 totals nearly $5.8 million.
NMTD welcomes Lincoln County, Sandia Pueblo and the Village of Jemez Springs as first-time participants to the program for FY27. With the addition of Sandia Pueblo, NMTD is supporting five Native American entities in FY27 for a total of $149,585 in grant funding.
View the complete list of FY27 recipients for the Cooperative Marketing Grant Program below:
FY27 COOPERATIVE MARKETING PROGRAM AWARDS
Entity Name Award
Acoma Haak'u Foundation $12,000.00
Artesia Chamber of Commerce $8,000.00
City of Alamogordo $217,298.00
City of Clovis $42,533.00
City of Deming $83,458.00
City of Gallup $148,310.00
City of Grants $73,740.00
City of Las Vegas $170,952.00
City of Roswell $74,787.33
City of Socorro $25,996.00
City of Truth or Consequences $96,166.00
Cloudcroft Chamber of Commerce $5,758.00
El Rancho de las Golondrinas $9,250.00
Grant County $70,220.67
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center $4,228.00
Lincoln County/City of Ruidoso Downs $130,250.00
Lordsburg Economic Advancement Project $27,314.00
Los Alamos County $100,100.00
National Ghost Ranch Foundation $70,514.00
National Institute of Flamenco $12,180.00
Navajo Tourism Department $64,274.00
New Mexico Bed & Breakfast Association $8,726.00
New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs $111,180.00
New Mexico State Parks $40,446.00
Pecos Business Association $19,098.00
Pueblo of Picuris $8,390.00
Sandia Pueblo $60,966.00
Sandoval County Tourism Alliance $17,566.00
Santa Fe Children's Museum $21,200.00
Santa Fe County $272,882.00
Ski New Mexico $35,073.00
State of New Mexico Aviation Division $47,200.00
Taos Ski Valley Chamber of Commerce $15,333.00
The Santa Fe Opera $39,200.00
TOURISM Santa Fe $161,933.00
Town of Edgewood $4,602.95
Town of Mesilla $27,073.00
Town of Red River $73,940.00
Town of Silver City $95,000.00
Town of Taos $96,620.00
Village of Angel Fire $10,420.00
Village of Chama $39,367.00
Village of Jemez Springs $39,380.00
Village of Logan $32,883.00
Village of Ruidoso $503,906.00
Visit Albuquerque $451,360.00
Visit Farmington $106,391.33
Visit Questa $66,859.00
Total Awarded $3,854,324.28
***
Original text here: https://www.newmexico.org/industry/news/post/tourism-department-boosts-rural-tourism-development-through-cooperative-marketing-grant-program/
* * *
Tourism Department boosts rural tourism development through cooperative marketing grant program
*
SANTA FE - At a time where more US travelers are shifting towards shorter-duration and lower-cost trips, the Land of Enchantment is primed to capitalize on these noteworthy travel trades through the New Mexico Tourism Department's Cooperative Marketing Grant Program.
According to the US Travel Association, American travelers continue to prioritize travel but with a shift towards regional ... Show Full Article SANTA FE, New Mexico, Aug. 2 -- The New Mexico Department of Tourism issued the following news release: * * * Tourism Department boosts rural tourism development through cooperative marketing grant program * SANTA FE - At a time where more US travelers are shifting towards shorter-duration and lower-cost trips, the Land of Enchantment is primed to capitalize on these noteworthy travel trades through the New Mexico Tourism Department's Cooperative Marketing Grant Program. According to the US Travel Association, American travelers continue to prioritize travel but with a shift towards regionaland drive markets in response to growing travel-related costs.
Tourism offers one of the most effective forms of economic development for rural communities, which is why NMTD is dedicating over two-thirds of its grant funds to rural destinations in FY27, totaling $2,631,150.
"Knowing there remains a strong desire for travel during otherwise uncertain times, New Mexico has reason to be optimistic for promoting tourism," said Acting Tourism Secretary Lancing Adams. "By pooling resources for tourism promotion through the Cooperative Marketing Grant Program, we're empowering ourselves to capitalize on this opportunity.
In total, NMTD is granting $3,854,324 to 48 tourism-related organizations to support more localized tourism promotion campaigns. NMTD is again implementing a 2-to-1 cost share model, meaning the department is committing $2 in grant funding for every $1 committed by the recipient. The total media value created by this program for FY27 totals nearly $5.8 million.
NMTD welcomes Lincoln County, Sandia Pueblo and the Village of Jemez Springs as first-time participants to the program for FY27. With the addition of Sandia Pueblo, NMTD is supporting five Native American entities in FY27 for a total of $149,585 in grant funding.
View the complete list of FY27 recipients for the Cooperative Marketing Grant Program below:
FY27 COOPERATIVE MARKETING PROGRAM AWARDS
Entity Name Award
Acoma Haak'u Foundation $12,000.00
Artesia Chamber of Commerce $8,000.00
City of Alamogordo $217,298.00
City of Clovis $42,533.00
City of Deming $83,458.00
City of Gallup $148,310.00
City of Grants $73,740.00
City of Las Vegas $170,952.00
City of Roswell $74,787.33
City of Socorro $25,996.00
City of Truth or Consequences $96,166.00
Cloudcroft Chamber of Commerce $5,758.00
El Rancho de las Golondrinas $9,250.00
Grant County $70,220.67
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center $4,228.00
Lincoln County/City of Ruidoso Downs $130,250.00
Lordsburg Economic Advancement Project $27,314.00
Los Alamos County $100,100.00
National Ghost Ranch Foundation $70,514.00
National Institute of Flamenco $12,180.00
Navajo Tourism Department $64,274.00
New Mexico Bed & Breakfast Association $8,726.00
New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs $111,180.00
New Mexico State Parks $40,446.00
Pecos Business Association $19,098.00
Pueblo of Picuris $8,390.00
Sandia Pueblo $60,966.00
Sandoval County Tourism Alliance $17,566.00
Santa Fe Children's Museum $21,200.00
Santa Fe County $272,882.00
Ski New Mexico $35,073.00
State of New Mexico Aviation Division $47,200.00
Taos Ski Valley Chamber of Commerce $15,333.00
The Santa Fe Opera $39,200.00
TOURISM Santa Fe $161,933.00
Town of Edgewood $4,602.95
Town of Mesilla $27,073.00
Town of Red River $73,940.00
Town of Silver City $95,000.00
Town of Taos $96,620.00
Village of Angel Fire $10,420.00
Village of Chama $39,367.00
Village of Jemez Springs $39,380.00
Village of Logan $32,883.00
Village of Ruidoso $503,906.00
Visit Albuquerque $451,360.00
Visit Farmington $106,391.33
Visit Questa $66,859.00
Total Awarded $3,854,324.28
***
Original text here: https://www.newmexico.org/industry/news/post/tourism-department-boosts-rural-tourism-development-through-cooperative-marketing-grant-program/
Wash. State Ecology Dept.: State's Only Coal Power Plant Shifting to Natural Gas, Will Serve as Backup Power for Region
OLYMPIA, Washington, Aug. 1 -- The Washington State Department of Ecology issued the following news release:
* * *
State's only coal power plant shifting to natural gas, will serve as backup power for region
CENTRALIA - Washington's only coal power plant will transition to natural gas by 2028. As part of the transition, the Washington Department of Ecology reviewed the environmental impacts involved with the switch, and reached an agreement to mitigate those impacts with TransAlta, which operates the Centralia plant.
The switch to natural gas will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the Centralia ... Show Full Article OLYMPIA, Washington, Aug. 1 -- The Washington State Department of Ecology issued the following news release: * * * State's only coal power plant shifting to natural gas, will serve as backup power for region CENTRALIA - Washington's only coal power plant will transition to natural gas by 2028. As part of the transition, the Washington Department of Ecology reviewed the environmental impacts involved with the switch, and reached an agreement to mitigate those impacts with TransAlta, which operates the Centralia plant. The switch to natural gas will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the Centraliaplant and reduce most toxic air emissions associated with burning coal, although emissions of volatile organic compounds would increase.
Under an agreement with Ecology, TransAlta will invest between $7 million and $21 million in clean energy projects in Lewis and Thurston counties, based on the plant's emissions each year.
Ecology is seeking public input on the environmental review documents and the draft air quality permit through Sept. 6. Public comments will help shape a new grant program and provide input on the environmental review for the transition to natural gas.
Although the transition means the plant will continue to burn fossil fuels, it will operate as a peaker plant - backing up other power sources when needed. This means that total greenhouse gas emissions will be lower than they were when the plant relied on coal-fired generation.
TransAlta plans to end natural gas generation at the Centralia plant in 2044, ahead of a 2045 deadline in Washington's Clean Energy Transformation Act for all power used in the state to come from clean sources.
"Transitioning our state's only coal power plant to natural gas will ensure reliable power while we continue to develop renewable power sources," said Casey Sixkiller, Ecology's director. "Washington is committed to clean energy. TransAlta has worked with Ecology on the proposed expansion of their clean energy grant program associated with the continuation of operations."
History
In 1972, the Centralia Power Plant began burning coal in two boilers to generate steam. The steam spun turbines, generating more than a gigawatt of power.
For many years, the Centralia plant was the largest single source of greenhouse gas emissions in Washington. It was also a major source of pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide.
Under a 2011 agreement with Washington State, TransAlta committed to stop burning coal in the plant by 2025. One of the plant's two generating units was shut down in 2020, and TransAlta planned to close the second unit at the end of 2025.
In December 2025, TransAlta announced an agreement with Puget Sound Energy to transition the remaining generating unit to natural gas, delivering up to 723 megawatts of power when needed.
However, that same month, the U.S. Department of Energy issued an emergency order requiring TransAlta to keep the Centralia plant operational as a coal power plant. Despite the emergency order, which has since been extended twice, the plant has not actually been called on to supply electricity to the grid since mid-December.
Provide input
The public comment period for the mitigated determination of nonsignificance, State Environmental Policy Act checklist, and draft air quality permit is open until 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026.
There are multiple ways to provide input:
* Comment or request a public hearing online: https://go.ecology.wa.gov/CommentTransAlta
* Mail your comments to Ecology:
Bobbak Talebi
Department of Ecology
Southwest Region Office
P.O. Box 47775
Olympia, WA 98504-7775
* * *
Original text here: https://ecology.wa.gov/about-us/who-we-are/news/2026/july-31-state-s-only-coal-power-plant-shifting-to-natural-gas-serve-as-backup-power-for-region
* * *
State's only coal power plant shifting to natural gas, will serve as backup power for region
CENTRALIA - Washington's only coal power plant will transition to natural gas by 2028. As part of the transition, the Washington Department of Ecology reviewed the environmental impacts involved with the switch, and reached an agreement to mitigate those impacts with TransAlta, which operates the Centralia plant.
The switch to natural gas will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the Centralia ... Show Full Article OLYMPIA, Washington, Aug. 1 -- The Washington State Department of Ecology issued the following news release: * * * State's only coal power plant shifting to natural gas, will serve as backup power for region CENTRALIA - Washington's only coal power plant will transition to natural gas by 2028. As part of the transition, the Washington Department of Ecology reviewed the environmental impacts involved with the switch, and reached an agreement to mitigate those impacts with TransAlta, which operates the Centralia plant. The switch to natural gas will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the Centraliaplant and reduce most toxic air emissions associated with burning coal, although emissions of volatile organic compounds would increase.
Under an agreement with Ecology, TransAlta will invest between $7 million and $21 million in clean energy projects in Lewis and Thurston counties, based on the plant's emissions each year.
Ecology is seeking public input on the environmental review documents and the draft air quality permit through Sept. 6. Public comments will help shape a new grant program and provide input on the environmental review for the transition to natural gas.
Although the transition means the plant will continue to burn fossil fuels, it will operate as a peaker plant - backing up other power sources when needed. This means that total greenhouse gas emissions will be lower than they were when the plant relied on coal-fired generation.
TransAlta plans to end natural gas generation at the Centralia plant in 2044, ahead of a 2045 deadline in Washington's Clean Energy Transformation Act for all power used in the state to come from clean sources.
"Transitioning our state's only coal power plant to natural gas will ensure reliable power while we continue to develop renewable power sources," said Casey Sixkiller, Ecology's director. "Washington is committed to clean energy. TransAlta has worked with Ecology on the proposed expansion of their clean energy grant program associated with the continuation of operations."
History
In 1972, the Centralia Power Plant began burning coal in two boilers to generate steam. The steam spun turbines, generating more than a gigawatt of power.
For many years, the Centralia plant was the largest single source of greenhouse gas emissions in Washington. It was also a major source of pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide.
Under a 2011 agreement with Washington State, TransAlta committed to stop burning coal in the plant by 2025. One of the plant's two generating units was shut down in 2020, and TransAlta planned to close the second unit at the end of 2025.
In December 2025, TransAlta announced an agreement with Puget Sound Energy to transition the remaining generating unit to natural gas, delivering up to 723 megawatts of power when needed.
However, that same month, the U.S. Department of Energy issued an emergency order requiring TransAlta to keep the Centralia plant operational as a coal power plant. Despite the emergency order, which has since been extended twice, the plant has not actually been called on to supply electricity to the grid since mid-December.
Provide input
The public comment period for the mitigated determination of nonsignificance, State Environmental Policy Act checklist, and draft air quality permit is open until 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026.
There are multiple ways to provide input:
* Comment or request a public hearing online: https://go.ecology.wa.gov/CommentTransAlta
* Mail your comments to Ecology:
Bobbak Talebi
Department of Ecology
Southwest Region Office
P.O. Box 47775
Olympia, WA 98504-7775
* * *
Original text here: https://ecology.wa.gov/about-us/who-we-are/news/2026/july-31-state-s-only-coal-power-plant-shifting-to-natural-gas-serve-as-backup-power-for-region
Shooting Sports Month 2026
JUNEAU, Alaska, Aug. 1 -- Gov. Mike Dunleavy, R-Alaska, issued the following news release:
* * *
Shooting Sports Month 2026
*
WHEREAS, Alaskans enjoy a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year, and many of those activities, from hiking and hunting to recreational shooting, involve the use of firearms; and
WHEREAS, many Alaskans rely on and take pride in the ability to use firearms to feed and protect their families, which has instilled a great passion for firearms in many; and
WHEREAS, in activities involving firearms, it is essential that Alaskans who participate are well-trained ... Show Full Article JUNEAU, Alaska, Aug. 1 -- Gov. Mike Dunleavy, R-Alaska, issued the following news release: * * * Shooting Sports Month 2026 * WHEREAS, Alaskans enjoy a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year, and many of those activities, from hiking and hunting to recreational shooting, involve the use of firearms; and WHEREAS, many Alaskans rely on and take pride in the ability to use firearms to feed and protect their families, which has instilled a great passion for firearms in many; and WHEREAS, in activities involving firearms, it is essential that Alaskans who participate are well-trainedand knowledgeable about safe firearm practices; and
WHEREAS, many Alaskans, young and old, participate in target shooting, which is an effective and enjoyable way to learn and practice safe firearm handling; and
WHEREAS, shooting sports programs conducted under the guidance of trained firearm instructors reinforce the important role of local communities in instilling respect for the rule of law and fostering personal responsibility; and
WHEREAS, sportsmen and hunters teach others to understand the responsibilities associated with owning and using firearms while also working to safeguard our natural resources; and
WHEREAS, the shooting sports industry contributes greatly to Alaska's economy and provides employment to many Alaskans; and
WHEREAS, Alaska is a diverse state with numerous opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, and Alaska's people are grateful for firearms and the activities and resources they can provide when utilized in a safe and responsible manner.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim August 2026 as:
Shooting Sports Month
in Alaska and encourage all interested Alaskans to participate in shooting sports programs in order to learn about safe firearm practices and the many benefits firearms can provide in the Last Frontier.
Dated: August 1, 2026
***
Original text here: https://gov.alaska.gov/shooting-sports-month-2026/
* * *
Shooting Sports Month 2026
*
WHEREAS, Alaskans enjoy a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year, and many of those activities, from hiking and hunting to recreational shooting, involve the use of firearms; and
WHEREAS, many Alaskans rely on and take pride in the ability to use firearms to feed and protect their families, which has instilled a great passion for firearms in many; and
WHEREAS, in activities involving firearms, it is essential that Alaskans who participate are well-trained ... Show Full Article JUNEAU, Alaska, Aug. 1 -- Gov. Mike Dunleavy, R-Alaska, issued the following news release: * * * Shooting Sports Month 2026 * WHEREAS, Alaskans enjoy a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year, and many of those activities, from hiking and hunting to recreational shooting, involve the use of firearms; and WHEREAS, many Alaskans rely on and take pride in the ability to use firearms to feed and protect their families, which has instilled a great passion for firearms in many; and WHEREAS, in activities involving firearms, it is essential that Alaskans who participate are well-trainedand knowledgeable about safe firearm practices; and
WHEREAS, many Alaskans, young and old, participate in target shooting, which is an effective and enjoyable way to learn and practice safe firearm handling; and
WHEREAS, shooting sports programs conducted under the guidance of trained firearm instructors reinforce the important role of local communities in instilling respect for the rule of law and fostering personal responsibility; and
WHEREAS, sportsmen and hunters teach others to understand the responsibilities associated with owning and using firearms while also working to safeguard our natural resources; and
WHEREAS, the shooting sports industry contributes greatly to Alaska's economy and provides employment to many Alaskans; and
WHEREAS, Alaska is a diverse state with numerous opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, and Alaska's people are grateful for firearms and the activities and resources they can provide when utilized in a safe and responsible manner.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim August 2026 as:
Shooting Sports Month
in Alaska and encourage all interested Alaskans to participate in shooting sports programs in order to learn about safe firearm practices and the many benefits firearms can provide in the Last Frontier.
Dated: August 1, 2026
***
Original text here: https://gov.alaska.gov/shooting-sports-month-2026/
N.H. Education Dept. Awarded More Than $8M to Expand Evidence-Based Writing Instruction
CONCORD, New Hampshire, Aug. 1 -- The New Hampshire Department of Education issued the following news release:
* * *
NHED awarded more than $8M to expand evidence-based writing instruction
Identified as one of New Hampshire's highest literacy priorities
-
The New Hampshire Department of Education (NHED) has been awarded an $8.7 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to significantly expand evidence-based writing instruction for students across the state.
The highly competitive federal award will support a five-year initiative designed to improve writing achievement by providing ... Show Full Article CONCORD, New Hampshire, Aug. 1 -- The New Hampshire Department of Education issued the following news release: * * * NHED awarded more than $8M to expand evidence-based writing instruction Identified as one of New Hampshire's highest literacy priorities - The New Hampshire Department of Education (NHED) has been awarded an $8.7 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to significantly expand evidence-based writing instruction for students across the state. The highly competitive federal award will support a five-year initiative designed to improve writing achievement by providingeducators with intensive professional learning, instructional resources, coaching and ongoing implementation support rooted in the Institute of Education Sciences' What Works Clearinghouse recommendations for teaching writing. The project is expected to reach 100 schools and thousands of educators and students in New Hampshire; up to 40 additional schools could be added in the future through a train-the-trainer model.
"This investment recognizes New Hampshire's commitment to ensuring every student has access to high-quality, evidence-based instruction," said Commissioner Caitlin D. Davis of NHED. "Strong writing skills are fundamental to success in every academic subject, college, careers and life. This grant will provide educators with the professional learning, tools and support needed to strengthen writing instruction and improve student outcomes."
In her 2026 State of the State Address, Governor Kelly Ayotte called for the state to raise the bar for literacy and directed Commissioner Davis and NHED to undertake a new reading initiative. This federal investment is aligned to that work and will accelerate that vision forward by equipping students with strong writing proficiency and the reading comprehension skills they need.
The project will be led by NHED in partnership with a nationally recognized provider of evidence-based literacy professional learning. Project implementation, which will focus on grades kindergarten through eighth-grade, is expected to begin during the 2026-2027 school year, with participating districts joining the initiative in phases throughout the five-year grant period.
The grant will include:
* Statewide professional learning focused on evidence-based writing instruction;
* Coaching and implementation support for educators;
* Supports for writing integration that align with the schools' high-quality literacy materials, instructional content and classroom resources;
* Online learning opportunities and digital tools to assist educators; and
* An evaluation to measure the program's impact on teaching and student learning.
"This initiative will help teachers across New Hampshire use proven writing strategies that help students succeed. As we learn what works best, we will be able to share those effective approaches with schools across our state and the nation," said Melissa White, Director of NHED's Division of Learner Support.
The $8,755,969 grant was awarded under the Education Innovation and Research (EIR) program mid-phase grants. These grants are the second round of awards made using Secretary Linda McMahon's grantmaking priorities, which include strengthening evidence-based literacy instruction. Dr. Kathleen McCaffery, NHED's reading and writing specialist, played a key role in advancing this effort and authoring the grant, helping ensure that New Hampshire can benefit from this valuable resource; Stefanie King, the Department's English Language Arts education consultant, assisted with the grant writing.
"The work ahead reflects the priorities identified by New Hampshire's own educators and families. In a previous survey, they recognized writing instruction as one of New Hampshire's highest literacy priorities, which helped shape this EIR proposal," said McCaffery. "This federal grant allows NHED to respond directly to those findings, and recognizes that writing is not a separate subject, but rather fundamental to literacy. By interweaving evidence-based writing practices with daily reading instruction, New Hampshire will strengthen students' reading comprehension, language development, critical thinking, and communication skills."
* * *
Original text here: https://www.education.nh.gov/news-and-media/nhed-awarded-more-8m-expand-evidence-based-writing-instruction
* * *
NHED awarded more than $8M to expand evidence-based writing instruction
Identified as one of New Hampshire's highest literacy priorities
-
The New Hampshire Department of Education (NHED) has been awarded an $8.7 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to significantly expand evidence-based writing instruction for students across the state.
The highly competitive federal award will support a five-year initiative designed to improve writing achievement by providing ... Show Full Article CONCORD, New Hampshire, Aug. 1 -- The New Hampshire Department of Education issued the following news release: * * * NHED awarded more than $8M to expand evidence-based writing instruction Identified as one of New Hampshire's highest literacy priorities - The New Hampshire Department of Education (NHED) has been awarded an $8.7 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to significantly expand evidence-based writing instruction for students across the state. The highly competitive federal award will support a five-year initiative designed to improve writing achievement by providingeducators with intensive professional learning, instructional resources, coaching and ongoing implementation support rooted in the Institute of Education Sciences' What Works Clearinghouse recommendations for teaching writing. The project is expected to reach 100 schools and thousands of educators and students in New Hampshire; up to 40 additional schools could be added in the future through a train-the-trainer model.
"This investment recognizes New Hampshire's commitment to ensuring every student has access to high-quality, evidence-based instruction," said Commissioner Caitlin D. Davis of NHED. "Strong writing skills are fundamental to success in every academic subject, college, careers and life. This grant will provide educators with the professional learning, tools and support needed to strengthen writing instruction and improve student outcomes."
In her 2026 State of the State Address, Governor Kelly Ayotte called for the state to raise the bar for literacy and directed Commissioner Davis and NHED to undertake a new reading initiative. This federal investment is aligned to that work and will accelerate that vision forward by equipping students with strong writing proficiency and the reading comprehension skills they need.
The project will be led by NHED in partnership with a nationally recognized provider of evidence-based literacy professional learning. Project implementation, which will focus on grades kindergarten through eighth-grade, is expected to begin during the 2026-2027 school year, with participating districts joining the initiative in phases throughout the five-year grant period.
The grant will include:
* Statewide professional learning focused on evidence-based writing instruction;
* Coaching and implementation support for educators;
* Supports for writing integration that align with the schools' high-quality literacy materials, instructional content and classroom resources;
* Online learning opportunities and digital tools to assist educators; and
* An evaluation to measure the program's impact on teaching and student learning.
"This initiative will help teachers across New Hampshire use proven writing strategies that help students succeed. As we learn what works best, we will be able to share those effective approaches with schools across our state and the nation," said Melissa White, Director of NHED's Division of Learner Support.
The $8,755,969 grant was awarded under the Education Innovation and Research (EIR) program mid-phase grants. These grants are the second round of awards made using Secretary Linda McMahon's grantmaking priorities, which include strengthening evidence-based literacy instruction. Dr. Kathleen McCaffery, NHED's reading and writing specialist, played a key role in advancing this effort and authoring the grant, helping ensure that New Hampshire can benefit from this valuable resource; Stefanie King, the Department's English Language Arts education consultant, assisted with the grant writing.
"The work ahead reflects the priorities identified by New Hampshire's own educators and families. In a previous survey, they recognized writing instruction as one of New Hampshire's highest literacy priorities, which helped shape this EIR proposal," said McCaffery. "This federal grant allows NHED to respond directly to those findings, and recognizes that writing is not a separate subject, but rather fundamental to literacy. By interweaving evidence-based writing practices with daily reading instruction, New Hampshire will strengthen students' reading comprehension, language development, critical thinking, and communication skills."
* * *
Original text here: https://www.education.nh.gov/news-and-media/nhed-awarded-more-8m-expand-evidence-based-writing-instruction
Hawaii Business, Economic Development & Tourism Dept.: June 2026 Visitor Spending and Arrivals Rose Slightly
HONOLULU, Hawaii, Aug. 1 -- The Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism issued the following news release:
* * *
June 2026 Visitor Spending and Arrivals Rose Slightly
Total spending by visitors in June 2026 was $1.98 billion (measured in nominal dollars), a 0.6 percent increase from June 2025, according to preliminary statistics from the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT). There were 858,577 total visitors in June 2026, up slightly (+0.2%) from June 2025 (857,102 visitors). Visitors who came in June 2026 spent more on an average daily basis ... Show Full Article HONOLULU, Hawaii, Aug. 1 -- The Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism issued the following news release: * * * June 2026 Visitor Spending and Arrivals Rose Slightly Total spending by visitors in June 2026 was $1.98 billion (measured in nominal dollars), a 0.6 percent increase from June 2025, according to preliminary statistics from the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT). There were 858,577 total visitors in June 2026, up slightly (+0.2%) from June 2025 (857,102 visitors). Visitors who came in June 2026 spent more on an average daily basis($293 per person, +13.2%) than a year ago.
There were slightly more total visitors in June 2026, however their average length of stay was shorter at 7.86 days, compared to 8.86 days (-11.3%) in June 2025. The statewide average daily census(1) in June 2026 was 224,981 visitors compared to 253,252 visitors (-11.2%) in June 2025.
In June 2026, 486,117 visitors arrived from the U.S. West, a 0.7 percent growth from June 2025 (482,941 visitors). In June 2026, total spending by U.S. West visitors was $1.01 billion, the average daily spending was $275 per person and the average length of stay was 7.55 days. In June 2025, U.S. West visitors recorded total spending of $1.01 billion, the average daily spending was $242 per person and the average length of stay was 8.64 days.
In June 2026, there were 243,360 visitors from the U.S. East, an increase of 9.4 percent from June 2025 (222,425 visitors). In June 2026, total spending by U.S. East visitors was $698.6 million, the average daily spending was $337 per person and the average length of stay was 8.51 days. In June 2025, U.S. East visitors recorded total spending of $642.9 million, the average daily spending was $297 per person and the average length of stay was 9.75 days.
In June 2026, 54,902 visitors arrived from Japan, down 4.2 percent from June 2025 (57,288 visitors). In June 2026, total spending by Japanese visitors was $82.0 million, the average daily spending was $247 per person and the average length of stay was 6.04 days. In June 2025, Japanese visitors recorded total spending of $82.6 million, the average daily spending was $245 per person and the average length of stay was 5.88 days.
In June 2026, 12,211 visitors arrived from Canada, a 15.0 percent decrease from June 2025 (14,363 visitors). In June 2026, total spending by Canadian visitors was $26.4 million, the average daily spending was $232 per person and the average length of stay was 9.34 days. In June 2025, Canadian visitors recorded total spending of $32.3 million, the average daily spending was $229 per person and the average length of stay was 9.84 days.
There were 61,987 visitors from all other international markets in June 2026, which included visitors from Oceania, Other Asia, Europe, Latin America, Guam, the Philippines, the Pacific Islands and other countries. In comparison, there were 78,714 visitors (-21.3%) from all other international markets in June 2025.
Air capacity to Hawaii in June 2026 (5,416 transpacific flights with 1,160,464 seats) increased compared to June 2025 (4,981 flights, +8.7% with 1,111,525 seats, +4.4%).
Year-to-Date 2026
A total of 5,037,820 visitors arrived in the first half of 2026, which was an increase of 2.5 percent from 4,917,106 visitors in the first half of 2025.
In the first half of 2026, total visitor spending was $11.64 billion, up from $10.96 billion (+6.3%) in the first half of 2025.
Other Highlights
U.S. West: In June 2026, 369,628 visitors arrived from the Pacific region and 116,381 visitors came from the Mountain region. Eight out of 10 U.S. West visitors in June 2026 had been to Hawaii before (82.2%), while 17.8 percent were first-time visitors. In terms of accommodations, 55.5 percent of U.S. West visitors in June 2026 stayed in hotels, 13.8 percent stayed in condominiums, 12.4 percent stayed in timeshares, 11.7 percent stayed in rental homes and 10.4 percent stayed with friends and relatives.
In the first half of 2026, there were 2,575,365 visitors from the U.S. West, compared to 2,549,189 visitors (+1.0%) in the first half of 2025.
U.S. West visitors spent $5.63 billion in the first half of 2026, compared to $5.23 billion (+7.6%) in the first half of 2025. The average daily visitor spending in the first half of 2026 was $277 per person, higher than the first half of 2025 ($245 per person, +13.0%). Lodging, food and beverage, shopping, transportation and entertainment and recreation expenses all increased compared to the first half of 2025.
U.S. East: In June 2026, the three largest U.S. East regions in terms of visitor arrivals were the West South Central (63,105 visitors), South Atlantic (54,663 visitors) and East North Central (52,476 visitors). More than half of U.S. East visitors in June 2026 had been to Hawaii before (57.0%), while 43.0 percent were first-time visitors. In terms of lodging, 58.8 percent of U.S. East visitors in June 2026 stayed in hotels, 15.7 percent stayed in condominiums, 14.2 percent stayed in rental homes, 10.7 percent stayed in timeshares and 8.4 percent stayed with friends and relatives.
In the first half of 2026, 1,423,513 visitors arrived from the U.S. East, compared to 1,254,920 visitors (+13.4%) in the first half of 2025.
U.S. East visitors spent $3.90 billion in the first half of 2026, compared to $3.39 billion (+15.0%) in the first half of 2025. Daily visitor spending in the first half of 2026 of $313 per person increased from the first half of 2025 ($281 per person, +11.4%). Visitors spent more on lodging, food and beverage, transportation, entertainment and recreation, and shopping compared to the first half of 2025.
Japan: Of the 54,902 visitors in June 2026, 53,920 visitors arrived on international flights and 982 visitors came on domestic flights. Seven out of 10 Japanese visitors in June 2026 were repeat visitors (67.8%), while 32.2 percent were first-time visitors to the islands. In terms of lodging, 78.5 percent of Japanese visitors in June 2026 stayed in hotels, 13.7 percent stayed in condominiums, 8.8 percent stayed in timeshares and 1.3 percent stayed with friends and relatives.
In the first half of 2026, there were 339,588 visitors from Japan, compared to 319,474 visitors (+6.3%) in the first half of 2025.
Visitors from Japan spent $495.2 million in the first half of 2026, compared to $470.4 million (+5.3%) in the first half of 2025. Daily visitor spending in the first half of 2026 ($247 per person) increased slightly compared to the first half of 2025 ($246 per person, +0.5%). Visitors spent more on food and beverage, but less on entertainment and recreation. Their lodging, shopping and transportation expenses were similar to the first half of 2025.
Canada: Of the 12,211 visitors in June 2026, 10,168 visitors arrived via direct air service from Canada and 2,043 visitors came on domestic flights. Six out of ten Canadian visitors in June 2026 (61.6%) had been to Hawaii before while 38.4 percent were first-time visitors. In terms of lodging, 43.5 percent of Canadian visitors in June 2026 stayed in hotels, 21.9 percent stayed with friends and relatives, 21.0 percent stayed in condominiums, 8.6 percent stayed in rental homes and 4.4 percent stayed in timeshares.
In the first half of 2026, there were 209,084 visitors from Canada, compared to 226,021 visitors (-7.5%) in the first half of 2025.
Visitors from Canada spent $559.3 million in the first half of 2026, compared to $587.0 million (-4.7%) in the first half of 2025. Daily visitor spending in the first half of 2026 of $224 per person was lower compared to the first half of 2025 ($228 per person, -1.5%). Visitors spent more on food and beverage, transportation and shopping but less on lodging compared to the first half of 2025.
Island Highlights
Oahu: There were 514,992 visitors to Oahu in June 2026 compared to 512,198 visitors (+0.5%) in June 2025. Visitor spending on Oahu was $934.5 million in June 2026 compared to $915.5 million (+2.1%) in June 2025. The average daily census on Oahu was 114,131 visitors in June 2026 compared to 122,314 visitors (-6.7%) in June 2025.
In the first half of 2026, there were 2,924,512 visitors to Oahu, compared to 2,880,915 visitors (+1.5%) in the first half of 2025. For the first half of 2026, total visitor spending was $5.15 billion, an increase from $4.84 billion (+6.4%) in the first half of 2025.
Maui: Two years and 10 months after the wildfires of August 8, 2023, there were 229,197 visitors to Maui in June 2026, compared to 226,981 visitors (+1.0%) in June 2025. Visitor spending rose to $516.4 million in June 2026 from $511.5 million (+1.0%) in June 2025. The average daily census on Maui was 49,596 visitors in June 2026 compared to 57,740 visitors (-14.1%) in June 2025.
In the first half of 2026, there were 1,284,580 visitors to Maui, compared to 1,268,198 visitors (+1.3%) in the first half of 2025. For the first half of 2026, total visitor spending was $3.34 billion, compared to $2.97 billion (+12.3%) in the first half of 2025.
Kauai: There were 128,883 visitors to Kauai in June 2026 compared to 135,529 visitors (-4.9%) in June 2025. Visitor spending was $270.6 million in June 2026 compared to $265.9 million (+1.8%) in June 2025. The average daily census on Kauai was 27,521 visitors in June 2026 compared to 33,639 visitors (-18.2%) in June 2025.
In the first half of 2026, there were 647,009 visitors to Kauai, compared to 707,490 visitors (-8.5%) in the first half of 2025. For the first half of 2026, total visitor spending was $1.48 billion, compared to $1.45 billion (+2.2%) in the first half of 2025.
Hawaii Island: There were 154,835 visitors to Hawaii Island in June 2026 compared to 155,217 visitors (-0.2%) in June 2025. Visitor spending of $253.8 million in June 2026 was an increase from June 2025 ($259.8 million, -2.3%). The average daily census on Hawaii Island was 33,733 visitors in June 2026 compared to 38,434 visitors (-12.2%) in June 2025.
In the first half of 2026, there were 808,881 visitors to Hawaii Island, compared to 884,842 visitors (-8.6%) in the first half of 2025. For the first half of 2026, total visitor spending was $1.62 billion, compared to $1.59 billion (+1.9%) in the first half of 2025.
Flights and Air Seats to Hawaii
Domestic Flights
There were 4,787 nonstop domestic flights with 989,460 seats from the continental U.S. in June 2026, compared to 4,273 flights (+12.0%) with 919,435 seats (+7.6%) in June 2025.
U.S. West: For June 2026, 4,454 scheduled flights with 901,921 seats serviced Hawaii from U.S. West.
Air capacity increased from June 2025 (3,961 flights, +12.4% with 835,383 seats, +8.0%). Fewer scheduled seats from Anchorage, Denver, Long Beach and Seattle, were offset by growth in seats from Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Oakland, Ontario California, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco and new service from Burbank.
U.S. East: For June 2026, 317 scheduled flights with 84,934 seats operated to Hawaii from U.S. East.
Air capacity increased from June 2025 (300 flights, +5.7% with 82,117 seats, +3.4%). Fewer scheduled seats from Houston, New York JFK and discontinued service from Boston were offset by growth in seats from Chicago, Dallas, Minneapolis and Washington, D.C.
International Flights
In June 2026, there were 629 nonstop flights with 171,004 seats to Hawaii from international points of origin including Japan, Canada, Korea, Oceania, Guam, Manila and many other Pacific islands. Air capacity decreased compared to June 2025 (708 flights, -11.2% with 192,090 seats, -11.0%).
Japan: In June 2026, there were 335 scheduled flights with 94,650 seats from Japan.
Air capacity decreased compared to June 2025 (355 flights, -5.6% with 102,418 seats, -7.6%). Growth in scheduled seats from Nagoya was offset by fewer seats from Narita and discontinued service from Fukuoka.
Canada: There were 69 scheduled flights with 12,096 seats from Canada in June 2026.
Air capacity declined from June 2025 (82 flights, -15.9% with 14,118 seats, -14.3%), due to reduced service from Calgary and Vancouver.
Oceania:
* Australia: In June 2026, there were 41 scheduled flights with 11,423 seats from Sydney, Australia. Air capacity decreased compared to June 2025, (67 flights, -38.8% with 18,363 seats, -37.8%), due to discontinued service from Melbourne and fewer seats from Sydney.
* New Zealand: In June 2026, there were 12 scheduled flights with 3,300 seats from Auckland, compared to 13 flights (-7.7%) with 3,629 seats (-9.1%) in June 2025.
Other Asia:
* China: There have been no direct flights from China to Hawaii since service ended in early February 2020.
* Korea: There were 63 scheduled flights with 20,005 seats from Seoul in June 2026, compared to 82 flights (-23.2%) with 24,897 seats (-19.6%) in June 2025.
* Taiwan: Direct air service from Taipei to Hawaii ended in April 2020.
Other Markets:
* Guam: There were 30 scheduled flights with 10,500 seats from Guam in June 2026 compared to 28 flights (+7.1%) with 9,800 seats (+7.1%) in June 2025.
* Philippines: There were 24 scheduled flights with 7,318 seats from Manila in June 2026 compared to 25 flights (-4.0%) with 7,550 seats (-3.1%) in June 2025.
* Samoa: There were four scheduled flights with 680 seats from Apia in June 2026 compared to four flights (0.0%) with 664 seats (+2.4%) in June 2025.
* Rarotonga: There were four scheduled flights with 756 seats from the Cook Islands in June 2026 compared to five flights (-20.0%) with 945 seats (-20.0%) in June 2025.
* Kiribati: There were four scheduled flights with 680 seats from Christmas Island in June 2026 compared to four flights (0.0%) with 664 seats (+2.4%) in June 2025.
* Marshall Islands: There were 16 scheduled flights with 2,630 seats from Majuro in June 2026 compared to 17 flights (-5.9%) with 2,822 seats (-6.8%) in June 2025.
* Fiji: There were five scheduled flights with 850 seats from Nadi in June 2026 compared to five flights (0.0%) with 830 seats (+2.4%) in June 2025.
* American Samoa: There were 13 scheduled flights with 3,614 seats from Pago Pago in June 2026, the same as in June 2025.
* French Polynesia: There were nine scheduled flights with 2,502 seats from Papeete in June 2026 compared to four flights (+125.0%) with 1,112 seats (+125.0%) in June 2025.
In the first half of 2026, there were 31,418 transpacific flights with 6,911,650 seats, compared to 29,476 flights (+6.6%) with 6,573,368 seats (+5.1%) in the first half of 2025.
Cruise Ship Visitors
June through August are typically slower months for out-of-state cruise ships entering Hawaii. No out-of-state cruise ships came in June 2026. There were 9,328 visitors who came by air service to board the Hawaii-homeported ship Pride of America.
In June 2025, 1,371 visitors came to the islands via three small out-of-state cruise ships. There were 1,794 visitors who flew to the state to board a turnaround trip on one out-of-state cruise ship that came in late May 2025 and ended its first trip around the islands in early June. There were 9,913 visitors who came by air service to board the Pride of America.
In the first half of 2026, 93,904 visitors came to Hawaii via 47 trips aboard out-of-state cruise ships. There were 2,587 visitors who flew to the state to board turnaround trips. Another 59,291 visitors flew to Hawaii and boarded the Pride of America.
In the first half of 2025, 81,871 visitors came via 45 trips aboard out-of-state cruise ships. There were 1,794 visitors who flew to Honolulu to board a turnaround trip. Another 50,167 visitors flew to Hawaii and boarded the Pride of America
Statement by DBEDT Director James Kunane Tokioka
In June 2026, Hawaii tourism saw slight gains in overall visitor spending and arrivals compared to the previous year. Growth in visitor arrivals from U.S. West and U.S. East offset fewer visitors from Japan, Canada and other international markets.
June visitors generally took shorter trips, with all markets - except Japan - reporting shorter average lengths of stay compared to last June, continuing a trend that began in April 2026. In contrast, Japanese visitors stayed 2.8 percent longer than they did in June 2025. Despite challenges associated with exchange rates and rising costs, Hawaii's core markets continue to visit the state.
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1/ Average daily census measures the number of visitors present on any given day.
* * *
View the June 2026 tables here (https://dbedt.hawaii.gov/visitor/tourism).
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Table: ARRIVALS AT A GLANCE (JUNE 2026P VS. JUNE 2025P)
Table: ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS (JUNE 2026P VS. JUNE 2025P)
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Original text here: https://dbedt.hawaii.gov/blog/26-50/
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June 2026 Visitor Spending and Arrivals Rose Slightly
Total spending by visitors in June 2026 was $1.98 billion (measured in nominal dollars), a 0.6 percent increase from June 2025, according to preliminary statistics from the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT). There were 858,577 total visitors in June 2026, up slightly (+0.2%) from June 2025 (857,102 visitors). Visitors who came in June 2026 spent more on an average daily basis ... Show Full Article HONOLULU, Hawaii, Aug. 1 -- The Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism issued the following news release: * * * June 2026 Visitor Spending and Arrivals Rose Slightly Total spending by visitors in June 2026 was $1.98 billion (measured in nominal dollars), a 0.6 percent increase from June 2025, according to preliminary statistics from the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT). There were 858,577 total visitors in June 2026, up slightly (+0.2%) from June 2025 (857,102 visitors). Visitors who came in June 2026 spent more on an average daily basis($293 per person, +13.2%) than a year ago.
There were slightly more total visitors in June 2026, however their average length of stay was shorter at 7.86 days, compared to 8.86 days (-11.3%) in June 2025. The statewide average daily census(1) in June 2026 was 224,981 visitors compared to 253,252 visitors (-11.2%) in June 2025.
In June 2026, 486,117 visitors arrived from the U.S. West, a 0.7 percent growth from June 2025 (482,941 visitors). In June 2026, total spending by U.S. West visitors was $1.01 billion, the average daily spending was $275 per person and the average length of stay was 7.55 days. In June 2025, U.S. West visitors recorded total spending of $1.01 billion, the average daily spending was $242 per person and the average length of stay was 8.64 days.
In June 2026, there were 243,360 visitors from the U.S. East, an increase of 9.4 percent from June 2025 (222,425 visitors). In June 2026, total spending by U.S. East visitors was $698.6 million, the average daily spending was $337 per person and the average length of stay was 8.51 days. In June 2025, U.S. East visitors recorded total spending of $642.9 million, the average daily spending was $297 per person and the average length of stay was 9.75 days.
In June 2026, 54,902 visitors arrived from Japan, down 4.2 percent from June 2025 (57,288 visitors). In June 2026, total spending by Japanese visitors was $82.0 million, the average daily spending was $247 per person and the average length of stay was 6.04 days. In June 2025, Japanese visitors recorded total spending of $82.6 million, the average daily spending was $245 per person and the average length of stay was 5.88 days.
In June 2026, 12,211 visitors arrived from Canada, a 15.0 percent decrease from June 2025 (14,363 visitors). In June 2026, total spending by Canadian visitors was $26.4 million, the average daily spending was $232 per person and the average length of stay was 9.34 days. In June 2025, Canadian visitors recorded total spending of $32.3 million, the average daily spending was $229 per person and the average length of stay was 9.84 days.
There were 61,987 visitors from all other international markets in June 2026, which included visitors from Oceania, Other Asia, Europe, Latin America, Guam, the Philippines, the Pacific Islands and other countries. In comparison, there were 78,714 visitors (-21.3%) from all other international markets in June 2025.
Air capacity to Hawaii in June 2026 (5,416 transpacific flights with 1,160,464 seats) increased compared to June 2025 (4,981 flights, +8.7% with 1,111,525 seats, +4.4%).
Year-to-Date 2026
A total of 5,037,820 visitors arrived in the first half of 2026, which was an increase of 2.5 percent from 4,917,106 visitors in the first half of 2025.
In the first half of 2026, total visitor spending was $11.64 billion, up from $10.96 billion (+6.3%) in the first half of 2025.
Other Highlights
U.S. West: In June 2026, 369,628 visitors arrived from the Pacific region and 116,381 visitors came from the Mountain region. Eight out of 10 U.S. West visitors in June 2026 had been to Hawaii before (82.2%), while 17.8 percent were first-time visitors. In terms of accommodations, 55.5 percent of U.S. West visitors in June 2026 stayed in hotels, 13.8 percent stayed in condominiums, 12.4 percent stayed in timeshares, 11.7 percent stayed in rental homes and 10.4 percent stayed with friends and relatives.
In the first half of 2026, there were 2,575,365 visitors from the U.S. West, compared to 2,549,189 visitors (+1.0%) in the first half of 2025.
U.S. West visitors spent $5.63 billion in the first half of 2026, compared to $5.23 billion (+7.6%) in the first half of 2025. The average daily visitor spending in the first half of 2026 was $277 per person, higher than the first half of 2025 ($245 per person, +13.0%). Lodging, food and beverage, shopping, transportation and entertainment and recreation expenses all increased compared to the first half of 2025.
U.S. East: In June 2026, the three largest U.S. East regions in terms of visitor arrivals were the West South Central (63,105 visitors), South Atlantic (54,663 visitors) and East North Central (52,476 visitors). More than half of U.S. East visitors in June 2026 had been to Hawaii before (57.0%), while 43.0 percent were first-time visitors. In terms of lodging, 58.8 percent of U.S. East visitors in June 2026 stayed in hotels, 15.7 percent stayed in condominiums, 14.2 percent stayed in rental homes, 10.7 percent stayed in timeshares and 8.4 percent stayed with friends and relatives.
In the first half of 2026, 1,423,513 visitors arrived from the U.S. East, compared to 1,254,920 visitors (+13.4%) in the first half of 2025.
U.S. East visitors spent $3.90 billion in the first half of 2026, compared to $3.39 billion (+15.0%) in the first half of 2025. Daily visitor spending in the first half of 2026 of $313 per person increased from the first half of 2025 ($281 per person, +11.4%). Visitors spent more on lodging, food and beverage, transportation, entertainment and recreation, and shopping compared to the first half of 2025.
Japan: Of the 54,902 visitors in June 2026, 53,920 visitors arrived on international flights and 982 visitors came on domestic flights. Seven out of 10 Japanese visitors in June 2026 were repeat visitors (67.8%), while 32.2 percent were first-time visitors to the islands. In terms of lodging, 78.5 percent of Japanese visitors in June 2026 stayed in hotels, 13.7 percent stayed in condominiums, 8.8 percent stayed in timeshares and 1.3 percent stayed with friends and relatives.
In the first half of 2026, there were 339,588 visitors from Japan, compared to 319,474 visitors (+6.3%) in the first half of 2025.
Visitors from Japan spent $495.2 million in the first half of 2026, compared to $470.4 million (+5.3%) in the first half of 2025. Daily visitor spending in the first half of 2026 ($247 per person) increased slightly compared to the first half of 2025 ($246 per person, +0.5%). Visitors spent more on food and beverage, but less on entertainment and recreation. Their lodging, shopping and transportation expenses were similar to the first half of 2025.
Canada: Of the 12,211 visitors in June 2026, 10,168 visitors arrived via direct air service from Canada and 2,043 visitors came on domestic flights. Six out of ten Canadian visitors in June 2026 (61.6%) had been to Hawaii before while 38.4 percent were first-time visitors. In terms of lodging, 43.5 percent of Canadian visitors in June 2026 stayed in hotels, 21.9 percent stayed with friends and relatives, 21.0 percent stayed in condominiums, 8.6 percent stayed in rental homes and 4.4 percent stayed in timeshares.
In the first half of 2026, there were 209,084 visitors from Canada, compared to 226,021 visitors (-7.5%) in the first half of 2025.
Visitors from Canada spent $559.3 million in the first half of 2026, compared to $587.0 million (-4.7%) in the first half of 2025. Daily visitor spending in the first half of 2026 of $224 per person was lower compared to the first half of 2025 ($228 per person, -1.5%). Visitors spent more on food and beverage, transportation and shopping but less on lodging compared to the first half of 2025.
Island Highlights
Oahu: There were 514,992 visitors to Oahu in June 2026 compared to 512,198 visitors (+0.5%) in June 2025. Visitor spending on Oahu was $934.5 million in June 2026 compared to $915.5 million (+2.1%) in June 2025. The average daily census on Oahu was 114,131 visitors in June 2026 compared to 122,314 visitors (-6.7%) in June 2025.
In the first half of 2026, there were 2,924,512 visitors to Oahu, compared to 2,880,915 visitors (+1.5%) in the first half of 2025. For the first half of 2026, total visitor spending was $5.15 billion, an increase from $4.84 billion (+6.4%) in the first half of 2025.
Maui: Two years and 10 months after the wildfires of August 8, 2023, there were 229,197 visitors to Maui in June 2026, compared to 226,981 visitors (+1.0%) in June 2025. Visitor spending rose to $516.4 million in June 2026 from $511.5 million (+1.0%) in June 2025. The average daily census on Maui was 49,596 visitors in June 2026 compared to 57,740 visitors (-14.1%) in June 2025.
In the first half of 2026, there were 1,284,580 visitors to Maui, compared to 1,268,198 visitors (+1.3%) in the first half of 2025. For the first half of 2026, total visitor spending was $3.34 billion, compared to $2.97 billion (+12.3%) in the first half of 2025.
Kauai: There were 128,883 visitors to Kauai in June 2026 compared to 135,529 visitors (-4.9%) in June 2025. Visitor spending was $270.6 million in June 2026 compared to $265.9 million (+1.8%) in June 2025. The average daily census on Kauai was 27,521 visitors in June 2026 compared to 33,639 visitors (-18.2%) in June 2025.
In the first half of 2026, there were 647,009 visitors to Kauai, compared to 707,490 visitors (-8.5%) in the first half of 2025. For the first half of 2026, total visitor spending was $1.48 billion, compared to $1.45 billion (+2.2%) in the first half of 2025.
Hawaii Island: There were 154,835 visitors to Hawaii Island in June 2026 compared to 155,217 visitors (-0.2%) in June 2025. Visitor spending of $253.8 million in June 2026 was an increase from June 2025 ($259.8 million, -2.3%). The average daily census on Hawaii Island was 33,733 visitors in June 2026 compared to 38,434 visitors (-12.2%) in June 2025.
In the first half of 2026, there were 808,881 visitors to Hawaii Island, compared to 884,842 visitors (-8.6%) in the first half of 2025. For the first half of 2026, total visitor spending was $1.62 billion, compared to $1.59 billion (+1.9%) in the first half of 2025.
Flights and Air Seats to Hawaii
Domestic Flights
There were 4,787 nonstop domestic flights with 989,460 seats from the continental U.S. in June 2026, compared to 4,273 flights (+12.0%) with 919,435 seats (+7.6%) in June 2025.
U.S. West: For June 2026, 4,454 scheduled flights with 901,921 seats serviced Hawaii from U.S. West.
Air capacity increased from June 2025 (3,961 flights, +12.4% with 835,383 seats, +8.0%). Fewer scheduled seats from Anchorage, Denver, Long Beach and Seattle, were offset by growth in seats from Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Oakland, Ontario California, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco and new service from Burbank.
U.S. East: For June 2026, 317 scheduled flights with 84,934 seats operated to Hawaii from U.S. East.
Air capacity increased from June 2025 (300 flights, +5.7% with 82,117 seats, +3.4%). Fewer scheduled seats from Houston, New York JFK and discontinued service from Boston were offset by growth in seats from Chicago, Dallas, Minneapolis and Washington, D.C.
International Flights
In June 2026, there were 629 nonstop flights with 171,004 seats to Hawaii from international points of origin including Japan, Canada, Korea, Oceania, Guam, Manila and many other Pacific islands. Air capacity decreased compared to June 2025 (708 flights, -11.2% with 192,090 seats, -11.0%).
Japan: In June 2026, there were 335 scheduled flights with 94,650 seats from Japan.
Air capacity decreased compared to June 2025 (355 flights, -5.6% with 102,418 seats, -7.6%). Growth in scheduled seats from Nagoya was offset by fewer seats from Narita and discontinued service from Fukuoka.
Canada: There were 69 scheduled flights with 12,096 seats from Canada in June 2026.
Air capacity declined from June 2025 (82 flights, -15.9% with 14,118 seats, -14.3%), due to reduced service from Calgary and Vancouver.
Oceania:
* Australia: In June 2026, there were 41 scheduled flights with 11,423 seats from Sydney, Australia. Air capacity decreased compared to June 2025, (67 flights, -38.8% with 18,363 seats, -37.8%), due to discontinued service from Melbourne and fewer seats from Sydney.
* New Zealand: In June 2026, there were 12 scheduled flights with 3,300 seats from Auckland, compared to 13 flights (-7.7%) with 3,629 seats (-9.1%) in June 2025.
Other Asia:
* China: There have been no direct flights from China to Hawaii since service ended in early February 2020.
* Korea: There were 63 scheduled flights with 20,005 seats from Seoul in June 2026, compared to 82 flights (-23.2%) with 24,897 seats (-19.6%) in June 2025.
* Taiwan: Direct air service from Taipei to Hawaii ended in April 2020.
Other Markets:
* Guam: There were 30 scheduled flights with 10,500 seats from Guam in June 2026 compared to 28 flights (+7.1%) with 9,800 seats (+7.1%) in June 2025.
* Philippines: There were 24 scheduled flights with 7,318 seats from Manila in June 2026 compared to 25 flights (-4.0%) with 7,550 seats (-3.1%) in June 2025.
* Samoa: There were four scheduled flights with 680 seats from Apia in June 2026 compared to four flights (0.0%) with 664 seats (+2.4%) in June 2025.
* Rarotonga: There were four scheduled flights with 756 seats from the Cook Islands in June 2026 compared to five flights (-20.0%) with 945 seats (-20.0%) in June 2025.
* Kiribati: There were four scheduled flights with 680 seats from Christmas Island in June 2026 compared to four flights (0.0%) with 664 seats (+2.4%) in June 2025.
* Marshall Islands: There were 16 scheduled flights with 2,630 seats from Majuro in June 2026 compared to 17 flights (-5.9%) with 2,822 seats (-6.8%) in June 2025.
* Fiji: There were five scheduled flights with 850 seats from Nadi in June 2026 compared to five flights (0.0%) with 830 seats (+2.4%) in June 2025.
* American Samoa: There were 13 scheduled flights with 3,614 seats from Pago Pago in June 2026, the same as in June 2025.
* French Polynesia: There were nine scheduled flights with 2,502 seats from Papeete in June 2026 compared to four flights (+125.0%) with 1,112 seats (+125.0%) in June 2025.
In the first half of 2026, there were 31,418 transpacific flights with 6,911,650 seats, compared to 29,476 flights (+6.6%) with 6,573,368 seats (+5.1%) in the first half of 2025.
Cruise Ship Visitors
June through August are typically slower months for out-of-state cruise ships entering Hawaii. No out-of-state cruise ships came in June 2026. There were 9,328 visitors who came by air service to board the Hawaii-homeported ship Pride of America.
In June 2025, 1,371 visitors came to the islands via three small out-of-state cruise ships. There were 1,794 visitors who flew to the state to board a turnaround trip on one out-of-state cruise ship that came in late May 2025 and ended its first trip around the islands in early June. There were 9,913 visitors who came by air service to board the Pride of America.
In the first half of 2026, 93,904 visitors came to Hawaii via 47 trips aboard out-of-state cruise ships. There were 2,587 visitors who flew to the state to board turnaround trips. Another 59,291 visitors flew to Hawaii and boarded the Pride of America.
In the first half of 2025, 81,871 visitors came via 45 trips aboard out-of-state cruise ships. There were 1,794 visitors who flew to Honolulu to board a turnaround trip. Another 50,167 visitors flew to Hawaii and boarded the Pride of America
Statement by DBEDT Director James Kunane Tokioka
In June 2026, Hawaii tourism saw slight gains in overall visitor spending and arrivals compared to the previous year. Growth in visitor arrivals from U.S. West and U.S. East offset fewer visitors from Japan, Canada and other international markets.
June visitors generally took shorter trips, with all markets - except Japan - reporting shorter average lengths of stay compared to last June, continuing a trend that began in April 2026. In contrast, Japanese visitors stayed 2.8 percent longer than they did in June 2025. Despite challenges associated with exchange rates and rising costs, Hawaii's core markets continue to visit the state.
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1/ Average daily census measures the number of visitors present on any given day.
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View the June 2026 tables here (https://dbedt.hawaii.gov/visitor/tourism).
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Table: ARRIVALS AT A GLANCE (JUNE 2026P VS. JUNE 2025P)
Table: ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS (JUNE 2026P VS. JUNE 2025P)
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Original text here: https://dbedt.hawaii.gov/blog/26-50/
HAWAII GOV. GREEN ANNOUNCES BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPOINTMENTS
HONOLULU, Hawaii, Aug. 1 -- Gov. Josh Green, D-Hawaii, issued the following news release on July 31, 2026:
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GOVERNOR GREEN ANNOUNCES BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPOINTMENTS
Governor Josh Green today announced appointments to the Hawaiian Homes Commission, Campaign Spending Commission and Hawaii State Ethics Commission. Appointments to the Hawaiian Homes Commission are subject to confirmation by the Hawaii State Senate.
"Each of these leaders brings valuable experience, integrity and a deep commitment to public service," said Governor Green. "Their work will help expand opportunities for Native ... Show Full Article HONOLULU, Hawaii, Aug. 1 -- Gov. Josh Green, D-Hawaii, issued the following news release on July 31, 2026: * * * GOVERNOR GREEN ANNOUNCES BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPOINTMENTS Governor Josh Green today announced appointments to the Hawaiian Homes Commission, Campaign Spending Commission and Hawaii State Ethics Commission. Appointments to the Hawaiian Homes Commission are subject to confirmation by the Hawaii State Senate. "Each of these leaders brings valuable experience, integrity and a deep commitment to public service," said Governor Green. "Their work will help expand opportunities for NativeHawaiian beneficiaries, ensure fairness in our campaign finance system and uphold the highest ethical standards in state government." Hawaiian Homes Commission
Kali Watson - Chair (reappointment)
Governor Green reappointed Kali Watson as chair of the Hawaiian Homes Commission. Watson, who also serves as director of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, previously led the department from 1995 to 1998 and returned to the role in 2023. His tenure has focused on accelerating homestead development and expanding residential, agricultural and pastoral lease opportunities for Native Hawaiian beneficiaries.
"I truly appreciate Governor Green's continued confidence in me and I look forward to working alongside him to move the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands forward in historic and meaningful ways," said Watson.
Kanoa Alapai (appointment)
Alapai has nearly 20 years of experience in land stewardship, property management and agricultural operations. As senior land operations manager for Kamehameha Schools, he oversees approximately 175,000 acres across West Hawaii. He previously managed Waikii Ranch and serves on the boards of the Paniolo Preservation Society and Na Oiwi O Puuanahulu.
"I thank Governor Green and Chair Kali Watson for the privilege of serving the people of Hawaii and the beneficiaries of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands," Alapai said.
Gabe Amey (appointment)
Amey is the founder and executive director of RiseHI Foundation and launched Our Kupuna, which has supported more than 600 kupuna across five islands. He also brings more than two decades of business and lending experience, including helping local families pursue homeownership. Amey is an Omidyar Fellow and a graduate of St. Louis School and Menlo College.
"I'm grateful to the Governor for the trust he has placed in me, and I accept this kuleana with humility," said Amey. "Serving Hawaii's people has been the throughline of my life's work, from our keiki to our kupuna -- and I look forward to listening to and learning from beneficiaries as we work to help more Hawaiian families put down roots on their own aina." Mike Kaleikini (reappointment)
Kaleikini has more than 40 years of experience in power generation, including six years in the U.S. Navy and more than 35 years with Puna Geothermal Venture. He currently works in business development and serves with several Hawaii Island business and community organizations.
"I look forward to continuing the great progress the Green administration, under Chair Kali Watson's leadership, has made for our beneficiaries," said Kaleikini.
Campaign Spending Commission
Wesley M. Bogdan (appointment)
Bogdan brings more than 30 years of legal experience, including service in private practice, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Offices of the Attorney General and Public Defender, as legal counsel to two CNMI governors and as an associate judge of the CNMI Superior Court from 2017 to 2023. He currently works as a legal consultant, mediator and international football integrity officer.
"This appointment to the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission has special meaning for me," said Bogdan. "After more than 30 years in law and public service, I sincerely thank Governor Green for the opportunity to continue serving. I look forward to applying my legal and judicial experience in support of integrity, fairness and transparency in Hawaii's campaign finance process." Hawaii State Ethics Commission
Dr. Robert Hong (reappointment)
Governor Green reappointed Dr. Robert Hong to the Hawaii State Ethics Commission, where he has served since 2022. A Honolulu native and Kalani High School graduate, Hong is a cardiologist and professor emeritus at the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine. During his career, he established Hawaii's first accredited cardiovascular disease fellowship and served in several senior clinical, educational and administrative positions at JABSOM and The Queen's Medical Center. Hong has served on the Hawaii State Ethics Commission since 2022.
"I believe that good government requires the oversight of those who the government serves. Fundamental to this oversight is a review of any question raised about thoughtful and ethical behavior by those involved in governance. I am proud and honored to have the opportunity to help in this process," said Hong.
Laura Valenzuela (appointment)
Valenzuela brings more than 45 years of residential property management experience and currently manages affordable housing on Maui. A certified hospice aide and longtime community advocate, she is committed to serving with integrity, fairness and transparency.
"I am truly honored and humbled by Governor Green's appointment to the Hawaii State Ethics Commission. For more than four decades, I have had the privilege of serving the people of Maui, and those experiences -- especially serving affordable housing communities through the challenges of COVID-19, the Lahaina wildfire and volunteering as a certified hospice aide -- have reinforced my belief that integrity is demonstrated through fairness, compassion, transparency and respect for every individual. Public service is both a privilege and a responsibility and I look forward to serving the people of Hawaii with independence, thoughtful judgment and an unwavering commitment to the public trust." For photos of the appointees, click here (https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://us.list-manage.com/lpfgfWowo2v?e=a99ac9e1fd&c2id=bbcca54464c2ab4d5c94d7ce9bb034db__;!!LIYSdFfckKA!3i-Eb4EyNRUfSzZ-VXIcmKh8Da95hpEdbA8_QnZGtmuzF2z8tYhFwfr1Ia8RY8JjdWqxDpuXCnVwJo1mLqDT_Bj1BjR8$).
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Original text here: https://governor.hawaii.gov/newsroom/office-of-the-governor-news-release-gov-green-announces-boards-and-commissions-appointments/
* * *
GOVERNOR GREEN ANNOUNCES BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPOINTMENTS
Governor Josh Green today announced appointments to the Hawaiian Homes Commission, Campaign Spending Commission and Hawaii State Ethics Commission. Appointments to the Hawaiian Homes Commission are subject to confirmation by the Hawaii State Senate.
"Each of these leaders brings valuable experience, integrity and a deep commitment to public service," said Governor Green. "Their work will help expand opportunities for Native ... Show Full Article HONOLULU, Hawaii, Aug. 1 -- Gov. Josh Green, D-Hawaii, issued the following news release on July 31, 2026: * * * GOVERNOR GREEN ANNOUNCES BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPOINTMENTS Governor Josh Green today announced appointments to the Hawaiian Homes Commission, Campaign Spending Commission and Hawaii State Ethics Commission. Appointments to the Hawaiian Homes Commission are subject to confirmation by the Hawaii State Senate. "Each of these leaders brings valuable experience, integrity and a deep commitment to public service," said Governor Green. "Their work will help expand opportunities for NativeHawaiian beneficiaries, ensure fairness in our campaign finance system and uphold the highest ethical standards in state government." Hawaiian Homes Commission
Kali Watson - Chair (reappointment)
Governor Green reappointed Kali Watson as chair of the Hawaiian Homes Commission. Watson, who also serves as director of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, previously led the department from 1995 to 1998 and returned to the role in 2023. His tenure has focused on accelerating homestead development and expanding residential, agricultural and pastoral lease opportunities for Native Hawaiian beneficiaries.
"I truly appreciate Governor Green's continued confidence in me and I look forward to working alongside him to move the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands forward in historic and meaningful ways," said Watson.
Kanoa Alapai (appointment)
Alapai has nearly 20 years of experience in land stewardship, property management and agricultural operations. As senior land operations manager for Kamehameha Schools, he oversees approximately 175,000 acres across West Hawaii. He previously managed Waikii Ranch and serves on the boards of the Paniolo Preservation Society and Na Oiwi O Puuanahulu.
"I thank Governor Green and Chair Kali Watson for the privilege of serving the people of Hawaii and the beneficiaries of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands," Alapai said.
Gabe Amey (appointment)
Amey is the founder and executive director of RiseHI Foundation and launched Our Kupuna, which has supported more than 600 kupuna across five islands. He also brings more than two decades of business and lending experience, including helping local families pursue homeownership. Amey is an Omidyar Fellow and a graduate of St. Louis School and Menlo College.
"I'm grateful to the Governor for the trust he has placed in me, and I accept this kuleana with humility," said Amey. "Serving Hawaii's people has been the throughline of my life's work, from our keiki to our kupuna -- and I look forward to listening to and learning from beneficiaries as we work to help more Hawaiian families put down roots on their own aina." Mike Kaleikini (reappointment)
Kaleikini has more than 40 years of experience in power generation, including six years in the U.S. Navy and more than 35 years with Puna Geothermal Venture. He currently works in business development and serves with several Hawaii Island business and community organizations.
"I look forward to continuing the great progress the Green administration, under Chair Kali Watson's leadership, has made for our beneficiaries," said Kaleikini.
Campaign Spending Commission
Wesley M. Bogdan (appointment)
Bogdan brings more than 30 years of legal experience, including service in private practice, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Offices of the Attorney General and Public Defender, as legal counsel to two CNMI governors and as an associate judge of the CNMI Superior Court from 2017 to 2023. He currently works as a legal consultant, mediator and international football integrity officer.
"This appointment to the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission has special meaning for me," said Bogdan. "After more than 30 years in law and public service, I sincerely thank Governor Green for the opportunity to continue serving. I look forward to applying my legal and judicial experience in support of integrity, fairness and transparency in Hawaii's campaign finance process." Hawaii State Ethics Commission
Dr. Robert Hong (reappointment)
Governor Green reappointed Dr. Robert Hong to the Hawaii State Ethics Commission, where he has served since 2022. A Honolulu native and Kalani High School graduate, Hong is a cardiologist and professor emeritus at the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine. During his career, he established Hawaii's first accredited cardiovascular disease fellowship and served in several senior clinical, educational and administrative positions at JABSOM and The Queen's Medical Center. Hong has served on the Hawaii State Ethics Commission since 2022.
"I believe that good government requires the oversight of those who the government serves. Fundamental to this oversight is a review of any question raised about thoughtful and ethical behavior by those involved in governance. I am proud and honored to have the opportunity to help in this process," said Hong.
Laura Valenzuela (appointment)
Valenzuela brings more than 45 years of residential property management experience and currently manages affordable housing on Maui. A certified hospice aide and longtime community advocate, she is committed to serving with integrity, fairness and transparency.
"I am truly honored and humbled by Governor Green's appointment to the Hawaii State Ethics Commission. For more than four decades, I have had the privilege of serving the people of Maui, and those experiences -- especially serving affordable housing communities through the challenges of COVID-19, the Lahaina wildfire and volunteering as a certified hospice aide -- have reinforced my belief that integrity is demonstrated through fairness, compassion, transparency and respect for every individual. Public service is both a privilege and a responsibility and I look forward to serving the people of Hawaii with independence, thoughtful judgment and an unwavering commitment to the public trust." For photos of the appointees, click here (https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://us.list-manage.com/lpfgfWowo2v?e=a99ac9e1fd&c2id=bbcca54464c2ab4d5c94d7ce9bb034db__;!!LIYSdFfckKA!3i-Eb4EyNRUfSzZ-VXIcmKh8Da95hpEdbA8_QnZGtmuzF2z8tYhFwfr1Ia8RY8JjdWqxDpuXCnVwJo1mLqDT_Bj1BjR8$).
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Original text here: https://governor.hawaii.gov/newsroom/office-of-the-governor-news-release-gov-green-announces-boards-and-commissions-appointments/
HAWAII A.G. DEPT. LAUNCHES MAJOR TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE FOR CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT SYSTEM
HONOLULU, Hawaii, Aug. 1 -- The Hawaii Department of the Attorney General issued the following news release on July 31, 2026:
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DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL LAUNCHES MAJOR TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE FOR CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT SYSTEM
The Hawaii Department of the Attorney General Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA) announced the successful implementation of KEIKI, the State's Child Support Enforcement System, following the completion of a two-and-a-halfyear technology upgrade project. The new KEIKI system became fully operational on July 20, 2026. The planned transition was completed ... Show Full Article HONOLULU, Hawaii, Aug. 1 -- The Hawaii Department of the Attorney General issued the following news release on July 31, 2026: * * * DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL LAUNCHES MAJOR TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE FOR CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT SYSTEM The Hawaii Department of the Attorney General Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA) announced the successful implementation of KEIKI, the State's Child Support Enforcement System, following the completion of a two-and-a-halfyear technology upgrade project. The new KEIKI system became fully operational on July 20, 2026. The planned transition was completedon schedule with no interruption to child support services or system operations.
The KEIKI project updated CSEA's child support system by replacing outdated technology while preserving the core functions that support the administration of child support services across Hawaii. The project modernized the application's technology platform, migrated the child support system from the legacy mainframe, and transitioned shared printing services from centralized state services to CSEA-managed printing. These improvements provide a stable, secure and scalable technology foundation that will support the program's long-term reliability, maintainability, and security.
Planning for the project began in early 2021. Over the course of the project, the implementation team completed application redesign, data conversion, interface redevelopment, system integration, comprehensive testing, training and operational readiness activities to ensure a carefully planned and seamless transition to the new platform.
Key accomplishments and benefits of the KEIKI implementation include:
* A modern technology platform designed to improve long-term system support and maintenance.
* Successful migration of child support system processing from the legacy mainframe environment.
* Transition of shared printing services from centralized state services to CSEAmanaged operations.
* Updated application components that enhance reliability, performance and scalability.
* Enhanced security and infrastructure resiliency.
* Enhanced reporting and data management capabilities.
* A flexible architecture that supports future federal and state program requirements.
"Completing the KEIKI upgrade project is a significant milestone for the Child Support Enforcement Agency and the families we serve," said Lynette Lau, administrator of the Child Support Enforcement Agency. "Thanks to the dedication of our staff and technology partners over the past two and a half years, we have established a reliable technology foundation that will support the agency's operations today while positioning us to continue improving the services for the people who rely on them." The KEIKI upgrade project was made possible through the dedication and collaboration of the CSEA, implementation partner Protech, the state's Enterprise Technology Services, Amazon Web Services, independent verification and validation partner Accuity, other technology partners and federal stakeholders. Comprehensive planning, rigorous testing and training helped ensure a seamless transition allowing the new system to go live as planned without disruption to child support services.
While the implementation marks the successful completion of the project's primary objectives, CSEA will continue to monitor system performance and work with its partners to identify future enhancements that further strengthen service delivery and operational effectiveness.
The Child Support Enforcement Agency administers Hawaii's child support program by establishing parentage, establishing and enforcing child support obligations, collecting and distributing support payments and helping improve the financial well-being of Hawaii's children and families.
For more information go to https://ag.hawaii.gov/csea/.
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Original text here: https://ag.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/News-Release-2026-48.pdf
* * *
DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL LAUNCHES MAJOR TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE FOR CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT SYSTEM
The Hawaii Department of the Attorney General Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA) announced the successful implementation of KEIKI, the State's Child Support Enforcement System, following the completion of a two-and-a-halfyear technology upgrade project. The new KEIKI system became fully operational on July 20, 2026. The planned transition was completed ... Show Full Article HONOLULU, Hawaii, Aug. 1 -- The Hawaii Department of the Attorney General issued the following news release on July 31, 2026: * * * DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL LAUNCHES MAJOR TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE FOR CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT SYSTEM The Hawaii Department of the Attorney General Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA) announced the successful implementation of KEIKI, the State's Child Support Enforcement System, following the completion of a two-and-a-halfyear technology upgrade project. The new KEIKI system became fully operational on July 20, 2026. The planned transition was completedon schedule with no interruption to child support services or system operations.
The KEIKI project updated CSEA's child support system by replacing outdated technology while preserving the core functions that support the administration of child support services across Hawaii. The project modernized the application's technology platform, migrated the child support system from the legacy mainframe, and transitioned shared printing services from centralized state services to CSEA-managed printing. These improvements provide a stable, secure and scalable technology foundation that will support the program's long-term reliability, maintainability, and security.
Planning for the project began in early 2021. Over the course of the project, the implementation team completed application redesign, data conversion, interface redevelopment, system integration, comprehensive testing, training and operational readiness activities to ensure a carefully planned and seamless transition to the new platform.
Key accomplishments and benefits of the KEIKI implementation include:
* A modern technology platform designed to improve long-term system support and maintenance.
* Successful migration of child support system processing from the legacy mainframe environment.
* Transition of shared printing services from centralized state services to CSEAmanaged operations.
* Updated application components that enhance reliability, performance and scalability.
* Enhanced security and infrastructure resiliency.
* Enhanced reporting and data management capabilities.
* A flexible architecture that supports future federal and state program requirements.
"Completing the KEIKI upgrade project is a significant milestone for the Child Support Enforcement Agency and the families we serve," said Lynette Lau, administrator of the Child Support Enforcement Agency. "Thanks to the dedication of our staff and technology partners over the past two and a half years, we have established a reliable technology foundation that will support the agency's operations today while positioning us to continue improving the services for the people who rely on them." The KEIKI upgrade project was made possible through the dedication and collaboration of the CSEA, implementation partner Protech, the state's Enterprise Technology Services, Amazon Web Services, independent verification and validation partner Accuity, other technology partners and federal stakeholders. Comprehensive planning, rigorous testing and training helped ensure a seamless transition allowing the new system to go live as planned without disruption to child support services.
While the implementation marks the successful completion of the project's primary objectives, CSEA will continue to monitor system performance and work with its partners to identify future enhancements that further strengthen service delivery and operational effectiveness.
The Child Support Enforcement Agency administers Hawaii's child support program by establishing parentage, establishing and enforcing child support obligations, collecting and distributing support payments and helping improve the financial well-being of Hawaii's children and families.
For more information go to https://ag.hawaii.gov/csea/.
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Original text here: https://ag.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/News-Release-2026-48.pdf