Health care administrators argued the bill, drafted in response to the deadly outbreak last year at a Hilo facility, could make health care slower.

Among other things, State Auditor Les Kondo is concerned about the types of records being requested as well as the extent of the investigation.

Several bills this session attempt to shirk new rules from the state Ethics Commission.

A bill proposes to allow exactly that so the leaders can work better together for the interests of the state.

In what amounted to a speech to kick off the legislative session, House Speaker Scott Saiki called for unity and leadership, saying elected officials should fight for principles but be prepared to compromise.

But a measure to end the income tax deduction for mortgage interest on second homes advances.

Details on a new governance committee proposed by the Hawaii House speaker that would investigate a new management structure have yet to be seen.

A bill before the Hawaii Legislature also calls for Health Department and county police enforcement.

It appears lawmakers won’t fund a new jail to replace OCCC, so the state is looking to the private sector.

This year, police agencies are required to include the names of officers who have been suspended as well as discharged once their disciplinary actions are final.