AGP Executive Report

Public Health Enforcement: Hawaiʻi DOH ordered a Kalihi community care foster family home operator, Ederlina Manzano, to discharge all clients by July 31 and close the facility after a no-contest plea tied to endangering an incompetent person; she faces a $1,000 fine and must submit an apology letter. Local Safety & Health: An 18-year-old motorcyclist died after a high-speed Kapolei crash; police say speed may have contributed, and the investigation is ongoing. Community Well-Being: Honolulu’s new police chief David Lazar was sworn in, pledging officer wellness, recruitment/retention, and rebuilding public trust. Water & Health Risk: EPA proposed UCMR 6 to expand monitoring of 30 unregulated drinking-water contaminants (microplastics not included), with sampling planned from 2028–2030. Marine & Environmental Health: DLNR’s Holomua Marine Initiative will hold an additional “Hana Hou” talk story session in Waimea on July 12 to guide local marine resource management with community input. Emergency Response Training: Philippine Navy medical teams completed maritime emergency care training during RIMPAC at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

Health Care Policy: CMS proposed changes to 2027 hospital outpatient and ambulatory surgery payments, including updates tied to 340B reimbursement and site-neutral payments, with extra boosts for Alaska and Hawaii due to higher nonlabor costs. Food Safety & Public Health: A UCLA study links the pesticide chlorpyrifos to more than double Parkinson’s risk and points to a specific mechanism involving disrupted brain cleanup processes. Local Health & Community: DLNR reported major participation in Hawaiʻi’s World Ocean Day coastal cleanup, removing thousands of pounds of debris and targeting microplastics. Maternal Health: A national spotlight on Black midwives highlights community-based care approaches aimed at reducing the Black maternal health crisis. Emergency Alerts: “Lulu’s Law” would allow shark-attack emergency alerts to mobile phones, modeled after Alabama’s system, with states handling implementation. Workforce & Wellbeing: A new analysis ranks South Dakota among the states with the shortest average workweeks, while Hawaii also lands near the low end. Safety & Access: Maui County is still working through delays on a safe parking pilot for unhoused residents, with another update scheduled. Obituaries: Recent local obituaries include long-time community members DiAnn Peitzmeier and Tevita Haʻunga Fonua.

West Maui Health Care: Kaiser Permanente and Maui Health announced plans for a permanent Lahaina clinic on a 3.5-acre site at 910 Honoapiilani Highway, with care currently delivered through a temporary modular clinic. Cancer & Health Equity: A new population-based study finds breast cancer incidence rising rapidly among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander women, especially those under 50 and with distant-stage and triple-negative tumors. Nutrition Access: HIDOE has served nearly 145,000 free summer meals statewide, with meals available weekdays through July 17 for children 18 and younger. Mental Health & Safety: A report says “The Wire” actor James Ransone had a history of suicidal ideation and sought hospital treatment for mental health issues before his death. Community & Prevention: Operation Shine the Light on Oʻahu recovered 14 endangered missing children in a two-day effort, the highest count in the program’s history. Public Health Policy: A coalition of at least 25 states and D.C. sued the Trump administration over Medicaid work requirements, arguing the rule unlawfully restricts access to coverage. Trauma-Informed Care: Hawaiʻi recognized the first cohort of state employees completing a new Trauma-Informed Care certification. Reef & Ocean Protection: A statewide World Ocean Day restoration event reported thousands of pounds of marine debris removed and hundreds of volunteers across multiple islands. Road Safety: Police said speed likely contributed to a fatal Kapolei motorcycle crash that killed an 18-year-old.

Medical Debt Relief: A new report says more states are moving to ease patient medical debt, including Hawaii’s measure awaiting the governor’s signature, while other states cap interest or delay debt collection actions. Reproductive Health Protections: Laws restricting abortion medication access and minors’ sexual health care take effect in several states, and Hawaii’s strengthened “shield” protections also begin today to limit how patient info can be used and to bolster provider protections. Western Governors Leadership: Gov. Josh Green became chair of the Western Governors’ Association and is setting a “Health Beyond Health Care” focus, with a winter meeting planned on Oahu and Pearl Harbor commemorations featuring Pacific partners. Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Dermatologists and environmental experts highlight reef-safe SPF choices, warning that oxybenzone and octinoxate can harm coral ecosystems. Digital Access for Older Adults: AARP awarded Hawaiʻi grants, including $15,000 for digital literacy classes at a Hilo affordable housing community serving older veterans and spouses. Local Health Care Update: Kaiser Permanente Hawaii and Maui Health plan a new Lahaina clinic on Honoapiilani Highway as rebuilding continues after the 2023 wildfires. Traffic Safety: An 18-year-old motorcyclist died after a Kapolei crash on the Kalaeloa Boulevard off-ramp; speed is believed to be a factor. SNAP Food Rules: A federal judge struck down SNAP “unhealthy food” purchase limits in some states, while Hawaii continues to face SNAP error-rate pressure tied to shifting federal requirements. Cancer Disparities: A new national report finds some cancer mortality gaps are narrowing, but prevention, screening, and treatment disparities persist.

Kaiser Permanente expands West Maui care: Kaiser Permanente Hawaii is partnering with Maui Health to open a new Lahaina Clinic, replacing the facility destroyed in the 2023 wildfires and aiming to deliver permanent, community-driven access at 910 Honoapiilani Hwy. Medicaid coverage under legal pressure: Twenty-five Democratic-led states (plus D.C.) sued the Trump administration over Medicaid work requirements, arguing the “medically frail” exemption is too narrow for people with serious illness or disability. Medicaid fraud funding cut: HHS suspended federal funding for New York’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, citing low performance on criminal fraud and patient abuse/neglect cases, with funding paused through at least Sept. 30. Parkinson’s risk linked to pesticide: A UCLA Health study reports chlorpyrifos exposure is tied to more than double Parkinson’s risk and describes how it may disrupt brain “garbage disposal” pathways. Safety on Hawaiʻi roads: Two separate e-motorcycle crashes in Kaimuki and Waialae Avenue left riders in critical condition; police noted lack of helmets and are investigating possible contributing factors. Community health support: A Hawaii woman is leading a donation drive for Venezuela earthquake relief, collecting medical supplies, hygiene items, food, and emergency essentials. Local health access funding: A federal grant opportunity would support national resource centers serving older Native Hawaiians and other Native elders, with applications due July 27. Health system integrity push: DOJ announced a large national health care fraud takedown involving hundreds of alleged fraudsters, including licensed medical professionals.

Air Quality & Public Health: Hawaii AG Kwame Raoul led a coalition of 17 attorneys general opposing an EPA proposal that would let major air-pollution projects start construction without a New Source Review permit—arguing it would cut public input and weaken protections for community health. Food Safety: Hawai‘i DOH Food Safety Branch reopened three Waikīkī-area eateries after follow-up inspections confirmed fixes to cleaning and sanitization problems; one location remains closed. Medicaid Coverage: Multiple states, including Hawaii’s Medicaid fraud unit being pulled earlier, are challenging new federal Medicaid work requirements that narrow “medically frail” exemptions—raising concerns about barriers for people with serious illness or disability. SNAP Accuracy: A federal report found Hawaii’s SNAP payment error rate slightly above the national average in FY2025, which could mean millions more at stake if errors don’t improve. Health Alerts: FDA issued a recall for Oribae Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo due to microbial contamination. Local Safety: Police reported two men injured in a Kona stabbing/head injury incident; investigation is ongoing. Gun Policy Watch: The U.S. Supreme Court will consider whether AR-15-style assault weapon bans violate the Second Amendment. Community Health Events: Honolulu’s AIDS Walk wrapped up Pride Month with major fundraising.

Cancer & disparities: A new national snapshot highlights cancer as a top U.S. health priority, with survival gaps tied to where people live and who they are. Local public health & safety: Honolulu reports a Nanakuli beach stabbing suspect was released after prosecutors declined charges, citing self-defense issues. Homelessness care access: Honolulu is funding two medical respite centers after state support ended, aiming to keep medically vulnerable people from being pushed back into hospitals. Hawaii health workforce: The first Kauai Medical Training Track cohort has graduated from JABSOM, with students returning to Kauai for years of service. Hawaii climate info for health planning: UH will start sending free monthly, plain-language climate summaries to residents, helping communities track drought and local conditions. Hemp regulation shake-up: Hawaii’s hemp and CBD retailers face enforcement starting Wednesday, with some stores turning to court to delay new rules. National Medicaid fight: Democratic-led states sue over federal Medicaid work requirements, arguing “medically frail” exemptions are being narrowed too much. Medical news beyond Hawaii: Actress Daveigh Chase, known for voicing Lilo in “Lilo & Stitch,” died of AIDS, according to medical examiner findings.

Medicaid Fight: Attorney General Peter Neronha joined a coalition suing the Trump administration over new Medicaid work requirements, arguing the rule unlawfully narrows coverage for medically frail people and forces states to rush changes or face penalties. Local Health Workforce: Hawaiʻi is moving to help therapists stay and get paid while they complete training, with a new law creating provisional associate-level licenses that let trainees bill insurance. Wildlife & Public Safety: A new statewide study finds most pueo deaths are trauma tied to vehicle collisions, with wind turbines also a factor—raising the stakes for road awareness and rodenticide practices. Mental Health Leadership: Gov. Josh Green will lead the Western Governors’ Association and launch a “Health Beyond Healthcare” initiative focused on improving mental health outcomes across the region. Oral Health Data: Pearl’s Oral Health Index uses AI to analyze millions of dental x-rays, aiming to map America’s cavity problem and highlight “dental deserts.” Community Care: Honolulu AIDS Walk wrapped Pride Month with more than $124K raised amid funding concerns.

Wildlife & Public Safety: A new University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa statewide study finds most documented pueo deaths are linked to trauma, with two-thirds tied to vehicle collisions or happening near roads—urging drivers to watch for owls during morning/evening hunting. Road Safety: Honolulu police report a 17-year-old e-motorcyclist was critically hurt in a McCully hit-and-run; the teen wasn’t wearing a helmet and the driver fled. Health Care Access: Kula Hospital on Maui remains closed after storm damage, leaving emergency care to Maui Memorial Medical Center while repairs and long-term resiliency planning continue. Community Health & Climate: UH’s Hawaiʻi Climate Data Portal is rolling out free, personalized monthly climate updates for neighborhoods and coastlines, translating rainfall, temperature, and drought data into plain-language alerts. Mental Health & Preparedness: Experts say extreme weather anxiety can be eased with a clear safety plan, returning to routines, and leaning on support after disasters. Food Safety: Hawaiʻi DOH issued a recall alert for MorningStar Farms products over potential plastic material. Policy & Care Delivery: A letter urges Hawaii’s governor not to veto SB 847, arguing prescribing privileges for psychologists could help address Hawaii’s mental health prescriber shortage.

Public Safety—Moiliili Crash: A 17-year-old motorcyclist was critically hurt in a hit-and-run on South King Street; police say the driver briefly checked on him and then left. Wildlife Health—Pueo Deaths: A UH Mānoa-led statewide review found 62% of documented pueo deaths were from trauma, with two-thirds tied to vehicle collisions or near roads. Healthcare Access—Kula Hospital: Kula Hospital on Maui remains closed after storm damage; emergency services are still shut, with patients directed to Maui Memorial or 911. Community Health—Honolulu AIDS Walk: The 35th annual walk at Kapiolani Park raised $124K+ for HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and support as funding concerns loom. Mental Health Policy—Western Governors: Gov. Josh Green will chair the Western Governors’ Association and launch “Health Beyond Healthcare,” focusing on mental health beyond clinics. Research—Maui Wildfire Study: UH Mānoa received a $2.2M NIH grant for the next phase of its Maui Learnings to Overcome Adversities study on long-term health impacts. Injury & Violence—Nanakuli Stabbing: Police arrested a 36-year-old woman after three women were stabbed at Zablan Beach; victims were treated for serious injuries. Cost of Care—Raising Kids: A new national analysis puts the cost of raising a child at $303,418 over 18 years, driven largely by child care and housing.

Alzheimer’s & Brain Health: UH John A. Burns School of Medicine hosted the Alzheimer’s Association Brain Health Summit, sharing new research, blood biomarker testing, diagnosis updates, and lifestyle steps for cognitive health—amid growing local impact. HIV Prevention Funding: Honolulu’s 35th Annual AIDS Walk at Kapiolani Park raised $124K+ with organizers warning that federal funding cuts could threaten local HIV services. Maui Wildfire Recovery Research: UH Mānoa won a $2.2M NIH grant for the next phase of the Maui Learnings to Overcome Adversities study, focusing on long-term mental health and well-being after the 2023 fires. Public Health Innovation: Hawai‘i researchers are testing whether recycled fishing nets and plastic waste can be turned into asphalt roads, aiming to cut landfill and ocean impacts. Safety & Trauma in the Community: Police arrested suspects in multiple O‘ahu stabbing cases (Mililani and Nanakuli), with several victims treated in serious condition. Mental Health Leadership: Gov. Josh Green will chair the Western Governors’ Association and launch “Health Beyond Healthcare,” targeting mental health beyond clinic walls. Injury Alerts: A serious H-1 crash left a motorcyclist hospitalized, while police also investigated a Mokuleia gunpoint robbery.

Public Health & Safety: Honolulu police arrested a 26-year-old suspect in a Kalihi stabbing that left a 24-year-old man in critical condition; investigators say an argument escalated before the suspect fled in a car. Pediatric Specialty Care: Shriners Children’s Hawaii’s Honolulu outreach team is heading back to Guam July 8–11 for free consultations for kids up to 17, but in-person appointment slots are filled and families are being directed to a waitlist or telehealth. Local Health Infrastructure: UH Hilo athletics facilities are set for an $11.6M renovation starting early next year, adding locker rooms, training and sports medicine spaces, weight rooms, and new classroom/conference areas. Wellness & Community: A local couple’s direct-trade coffee business story highlights how coffee can build community connections. Health-Adjacent Travel Alert: A new national report flags bedbug hotspots and notes Hawaii as among the least risky states for travelers. Military & Readiness (Hawaii-linked): RIMPAC 2026 training at Marine Corps Training Area Bellows included South Korean and U.S. Marines rehearsing ship-to-shore operations.

Pediatric Access: Shriners Children’s Hawaii’s Honolulu outreach clinic calendar for Guam is already full again, with DPHSS saying bookings are closed for July 8–11 and families can only join future waiting lists or telehealth options. Public Safety: Maui Fire Department announced where to buy Fourth of July fireworks starting June 29 and set strict rules on legal sale times, permitted consumer fireworks, and penalties—plus reminders that aerial fireworks are illegal and dangerous. Violence & Care: Honolulu police are searching for a suspect after a Kalihi stabbing left a 24-year-old man in critical condition; investigators say an argument led to the attack and the suspect fled by car. Health & Environment: NOAA confirmed Hawaiian monk seal RH32 (Ka‘ale) died from toxoplasmosis, a cat-feces-linked parasite that can silently devastate native wildlife. Cancer Research: New findings on de-escalating ERBB2-positive breast cancer treatment reported in JAMA Oncology highlight shorter, less intense regimens and explore whether ctDNA could guide decisions. Policy Watch: Hawaii’s gun-carry rules face major changes after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the state’s “vampire law” approach for private property.

Red Hill Water Fallout: The U.S. Department of Justice announced $17 million in new Red Hill contamination settlements for 629 Central Oʻahu plaintiffs, with payments aimed at family members sickened after the 2021 jet fuel spill. Public Health & Food Safety: Hawaiʻi’s Department of Health issued recall alerts for MorningStar Farms products due to potential plastic contamination. NOAA & Wildlife Health: NOAA confirmed the death of Hawaiian monk seal Ka‘ale (RH32) was caused by toxoplasmosis, a parasite that can spread through contaminated water and prey. Gun Policy Update: Hawaii’s AG says it’s reviewing the Supreme Court’s decision striking down parts of the state’s concealed-carry rules, while urging current law be followed. Wellness & Community: WWE is recruiting at the Hawaii Fit Expo, and Hawaiʻi residents can also expect more health-focused local events and screenings around the islands. Aviation & Health Tech Crossover: Electric aircraft demonstrations are underway in Hawaiʻi, with Hawaiian Airlines supporting evaluation activities.

Wildlife Health: NOAA confirmed the Hawaiian monk seal Ka‘ale (RH32) died of toxoplasmosis after a necropsy, with the parasite linked to contamination from cat feces and posing a major threat to monk seals. Environmental Health & Community Safety: Honolulu’s Department of Environmental Services launched a dedicated webpage updating residents on restoration of the CORP field area used as a temporary debris storage site after March Kona Low storms, including soil testing results and a reopening timeline. Public Health & Food Safety: Hawai‘i DOH issued a recall for MorningStar Farms products (Buffalo Chik’n Nuggets and Hot & Spicy Sausage Patties) due to potential plastic contamination risk. Local Health Economy: Hawai‘i’s unemployment rate ticked up to 2.5% in May, with job changes including a small decline in private education and health services. Access to Care/Wellness Tourism: Kalaupapa National Historical Park will offer public ranger-led hiking tours starting July 9 (reservations open June 26), with permits still required. Health Policy Watch: Supreme Court rulings struck down parts of Hawaii’s gun restrictions, a reminder that health and safety rules can shift quickly through federal courts.

Food Safety: Hawaiʻi DOH is warning residents about a MorningStar Farms recall of Buffalo Chik’n Nuggets and Hot & Spicy Sausage Patties due to possible plastic pieces; stop using and check best-by dates. Public Health & Prevention: UH Maui College’s Water Quality Lab gets a leadership update with new Lab Manager Dr. Shawn Pedron, highlighting hands-on training tied to community water and soil testing. Community Health Funding: Hawaii Community Foundation’s Richard Smart Fund is awarding $500,000 in 2026 grants to 29 Waimea programs spanning culturally grounded healthcare, education, and safety. Health Care Accountability: A Honolulu pharmacist, 54-year-old Henry Quan, was charged in a Medicare fraud case alleging $1.5 million in drugs billed but not dispensed. Nutrition Policy: Hawaii’s SNAP soda ban is delayed—restriction will not start Aug. 1 (pushed to April 1, 2027). Water Crisis Update: DOJ began first Red Hill spill payouts—about $17 million to 629 plaintiffs—while attorneys say thousands of claims remain unresolved. Health Access & Infrastructure: Hawaii County commissioners debated proposed wastewater rate hikes tied to major EPA-ordered upgrades.