From the Hawaii Tribune-Herald:

Hawaii County Council members will have another month to digest a bill that would restrict the use of genetically modified crops on the Big Island.

Before an overflow crowd, the council members during a meeting of the Public Safety and Mass Transit Committee on Wednesday deferred the issue until July 2 after Kohala Councilwoman Margaret Wille introduced a substituted version.

Council members said they wanted to allow for another round of public testimony due to the revisions and more time to consider the legislation.

Wille said she was fine with the delay.

“I agree with the sentiment,” she said. “I’m trying to be responsive and I definitely would like the feedback.” Read the full story.

And here’s the latest in other neighbor isle gov’t and politics:

Autopsy points to murder in death of woman near lava viewing

Panda Express sexual harassment suit settled

KPD budgets $1.7 million for fleet

Maui veteran volunteer saluted for senior service

Hawaii Health Systems Corp faces “financial crisis”

Foreclosure bill postponed by Hawaii County Council

Funds available to help protect island watersheds

Conservancy pushes for change to protect shearwater

EIS done for extension of Maui wastewater plant revetment

DOT breaks ground for fire station, dedicates Kona air tower 

Kona Country Club closing mauka course, renovating makai course

Kealakekua Bay open — with limits

$559 million budget gains first approval from Maui Council

Lottery officially canceled for Hawaiian Immersion at Paia

Changing out windows at the Lihue Public Library

Photo courtesy Scot Nelson.

—Chad Blair