Policymakers have shaped an economy that relies far too much on extractive tourism that provides little to residents in return. To reverse these trends, we need a dramatic shift in our public policy. 

Improving Hawaiʻi’s data policy to better serve Native Hawaiians.

40 Years of Rising Costs & Stagnant Wages.

Hawaiʻi’s post-COVID-19 economy should be one informed by an understanding that the old economic order had been failing many Hawaiʻi residents for decades.

Not only would a minimum wage increase help to improve the living standards of affected Hawaiʻi workers, but it would also strengthen local businesses, as low-wage workers plow almost every additional dollar of earnings back into the local economy.

The adverse consequences of housing stock lost to vacation rentals far outweighs the benefits they might provide to local families and our community.

The Need for a Working Family Credit

How Hawaiʻi’s low-income residents are faring post-recovery.

Survey results show half of Hawaiʻi's households are living "paycheck to paycheck."

Cutting taxes to strengthen the economy and boost Hawaiʻi’s families: A refundable state Earned Income Tax Credit.

The High Cost of Our Affordable Housing Shortfall

SNAP and the EITC in Hawaiʻi

ADUs are an important tool in expanding affordable housing stock, especially in areas with limited room for growth and high housing costs.

Innovative and Affordable Models to Meet Our Housing Needs

Recommendations to the Hawaiʻi State Legislature

Native Hawaiian Issues Project Report

How the Great Recession disproportionately impacted Hawaiʻi’s disadvantaged, and policy recommendations to achieve fairness.