Two truths in tension: Hawaiʻi’s housing crisis and the urgent need for anti-displacement measures
We should reject the false choice between growth and protection, we can do both. Anti-displacement policies like HB1325 ensure that, as we build for the future, we don’t abandon our present.
Reimagining our streets for health, fun and community
HB1260 would support the creation of a Summer Street Pilot Program, designed to temporarily transform car-congested roadways into vibrant spaces for outdoor fun and social interaction.
Proposed Trump tax cuts will overwhelmingly benefit the top 1 percent
As millions of Americans file their taxes this April, both the U.S. House and Senate have passed budget resolutions that open the pathway for a massive tax giveaway for the wealthiest people in the country.
As federal support fades, farm to families could fill the gap
Now, more than ever, investing in local food systems through programs like Farm to Families is a necessary strategy to build Hawaiʻi’s economic resilience and reduce food insecurity.
Implement strong eviction record sealing processes to protect Hawaiʻi renters
A single eviction filing—even one that doesn't result in actual eviction—can negatively impact renters for years. It's time for lawmakers to take decisive action to protect vulnerable tenants.
Hawaiʻi should close tax loopholes for multinational corporations
Multinational corporations make huge profits from the business activity they conduct in Hawaiʻi, while dodging the taxes they should be paying to support our state.
Why is SNAP failing Hawaiʻi residents?
It’s time for the state to invest in a more resilient, independent social safety net system that can keep working families going regardless of chaos at the federal level.
Tax credits are more necessary than ever in 2025
Hawaiʻi’s families need urgent help to deal with the high cost of living. This is especially true for parents, who have to balance the cost of child care, rent, and food every month.
Hawaiʻi’s keiki are still waiting for universal free school meals. The time to act is now.
Research shows that consistent access to nutritious meals improves both academic performance and long-term health. Yet, in 2023, 6 percent of Hawaiʻi households with children had one or more children go a whole day without food.
What’s in store for 2025: Hawaiʻi Appleseed transportation equity projects on the horizon
In 2025, we’ll take a greater look at more equitable approaches to traffic enforcement, the impacts of parking mandates on affordable housing, and addressing the unique mobility challenges that women and their families face.
Empowering Kalihi’s youth leaders through community organizing and policy advocacy training
While people in power sometimes hand wave the voice of youth in policy conversations, our partnership with KVIBE is a reminder that young people can and should be integral components of the decision-making process.
How a second Trump presidency could impact the pocket books of Hawaiʻi’s working families
Outside of the top 5 percent richest households, families will likely see significant tax increases, while the cost of consumer items would spike under proposed tariffs.
Community participation during 2024 legislative session highlights pressing nature of food insecurity in Hawaiʻi
1 in 3 Hawaiʻi households experienced food insecurity last year, underscoring the urgent need for robust policy interventions to ensure that all residents have access to adequate and nutritious food.
Hawaiʻi is even less affordable after the pandemic
How have jobs, wages and costs changed from before the COVID pandemic compared to after? These charts show changes from 2019 to 2022 that have affected livability for Hawaiʻi residents.
Universal Free School Meals ensures every keiki thrives
5 reasons to support Universal Free School Meals in Hawai‘i
Congress considers making the federal Child Tax Credit refundable; Hawaiʻi considers Keiki Credit
H.R. 7024 is a reminder that the Child Tax Credit is a widely popular program with proven anti-poverty benefits.
Hawaiʻi’s serious mental health care needs take a top spot in Governor Green’s 2025 supplemental budget
In addition to funding Lahaina's recovery, the governor proposes increases to much-needed funding for the state's unmet mental health care needs.
Focusing in on people-first policy for the 2024 legislative session
Hawaiʻi Appleseed announces its legislative priorities for the 2024 session.
Hawaiʻi can increase housing stability through a rent relief & mediation program
Creating and funding an ongoing rent relief and pre-litigation mediation program will increase housing stability in Hawaiʻi.
Legislative agenda 2023: tax reforms to boost incomes and fund investments in our future
Top of the list of immediate challenges for Hawaiʻi is to find a way to prevent our people from being overwhelmed by the high and rising cost of living in the islands.