The Ige administration and the state Legislature worked together to provide relief for businesses hard hit by the pandemic and facing higher payments into the state fund that covers unemployment insurance claims. HB 1278 HD1 caps the employer contribution tax rate at a lower “Schedule D” level for 2021 and 2022. (Read more)

Hawai‘i’s share of the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan signed by President Joe Biden provides a major infusion of federal funding at a time when the state and its residents need it the most. “This gives us much-needed breathing room so that layoffs and furloughs aren’t necessary in the foreseeable future,” said Governor Ige. The legislation means that the State of Hawai‘i and the four counties will receive about $2.2 billion in assistance to bolster state and county budgets and more funds for healthcare, education and other critical needs. (Read more)

Governor Ige issued an emergency declaration March 9 for the entire State of Hawai‘i in the wake of heavy rains that caused flooding and landslides. The disaster emergency relief period, which continues through May 8, 2021, makes state funds immediately available to help affected communities. (Read more) 

While some of us have been home binge-watching, Hawai‘i’s creative industry has embarked on a quiet revolution. From film, media, and music to visual, cultural and performing arts — those in the business have had to pivot to new digital platforms in the pandemic to survive. The result is a local creative industry that is finding new ways to generate jobs, revenue and market itself to the world. (Read more)

The “wow” factor is just the beginning when you step through the doors of the new Academy of Creative Media facility at UH West O‘ahu. The state-of-the-art, $37 million building will link creative media programs for students throughout the UH system and provide a high-tech training hub for high-demand careers. (Read more)

What if you could find work anywhere in the world and still live in Hawai‘i? A statewide program to help unemployed residents do just that has been launched, with more opportunities being planned through state and county partnerships. The goal of the Hawai‘i Remote Work Pilot Project is to help residents find new career paths and still make their home in the islands. (Read more)

Every year when the world celebrates International Women’s Day in March, we’re reminded of courageous women — past and present — who have made a difference in the world. From Hawai‘i’s own Queen Lili‘uokalani and other historic figures to pandemic caregivers and strong members of our own ‘ohana, the message to the next generation of girls is clear: Persist. Don’t give up your dreams. (Read more)

Your source for COVID-19 information and resources from the Hawai‘i State Department of Health. In today's issue the Department of Health will share a video testimonial from Rev. Dr. Elia Taase-Titiimaeaa who encourages others to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Receive tips for safer holiday celebrations this Easter weekend along with the latest updates about vaccine eligibility. To receive this week's COVID-19 Community Bulletin, subscribe today at health.hawaii.gov/updates.