Category: Uncategorized

 

STATE OF HAWAIʻI

KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

JOSH GREEN, M.D.

GOVERNOR

KE KIAʻĀINA

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS

KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

NADINE Y. ANDO

DIRECTOR

KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS

DENISE P. BALANAY

SENIOR HEARINGS OFFICER

DCCA DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

Through June 2026

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 17, 2026

HONOLULU – The state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) and its respective state Boards and Commissions released a summary of disciplinary actions taken on individuals and entities with professional and vocational licenses in Hawai‘i, through the month of June 2026. These disciplinary actions include dispositions based upon either the results of contested case hearings or settlement agreements submitted by the parties. Respondents enter into settlement agreements as a compromise to claims and to conserve on the expenses of proceeding with an administrative hearing.

The DCCA and the Boards and Commissions are responsible for ensuring those with professional and vocational licenses are performing up to the standards prescribed by state law.

BOARD OF BARBERING AND COSMETOLOGY

Respondent:     Liang Chen

Case Number:   BAR 2026-0046-L

Sanction:            $750 fine, immediate cessation of barbering activity outside a barber shop

Effective Date:  6-9-26

RICO alleges that on or about January 16, 2026, Respondent offered and provided haircut services for compensation on the premises of a studio that was not a barber shop, in potential violation of HRS §§ 439A-3(b) and 439A-16(a)(4). (Board approved Settlement Agreement.)

BOARD OF PHARMACY

Respondent:     Bond Pharmacy, Inc., dba Advanced Infusion Solutions

Case Number:   PHA 2026-9-L

Sanction:            $1,000 fine

Effective Date:  6-25-26

RICO alleges that Respondent was disciplined by the state of Ohio, in potential violation of HRS § 436B-19(13). (Board approved Settlement Agreement.)

Respondent:     Longs Drug Stores California, LLC, dba Longs Drugs #9164

Case Number:   PHA 2024-27-L

Sanction:            $1,000 fine

Effective Date:  6-25-26

RICO alleges that Respondent dispensed the wrong medication to a patient, in potential violation of HRS § 467-21(a)(4) and HAR  § 16-95-110(a)(9). (Board approved Settlement Agreement.)

REAL ESTATE COMMISSION

Respondent:     Adrian L. Rivera

Case Number:   REC 2026-0134-L

Sanction:            $5,000 fine

Effective Date:  6-26-26

RICO alleges that Respondent utilized an unlicensed contractor to perform contracting work requiring licenses pursuant to HRS Chapter 444, in potential violation of HRS §§ 436B-19(6) and 436B-19(16). (Board approved Settlement Agreement.)

Respondent:     Makana Bonde, fka Michael Makana Osborne

Case Number:   REC 2023-41-L

Sanction:            $3,000 fine

Effective Date:  6-26-26

RICO alleges that Respondent was convicted of six petty misdemeanors, including Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence of an Intoxicant (“OVUII”) on 7/18/2024, while being licensed as a real estate salesperson since 2018. RICO further alleges that on Respondent’s renewal application submitted on 11/21/2024, Respondent answered “No” to the question, “Since you last filed an application (initial renewal), have you been convicted of a crime in which the conviction has not been annulled or expunged?” and failed to disclose the 7/18/2024 OVUII conviction, in potential violation of HRS §§ 436B-19(5), 436B-19(12), and 436B-19(14). (Commission approved Settlement Agreement.)

BOARD OF PSYCHOLOGY

Respondent:     Robert M. Duwors, Ph.D.

Case Number:   PSY 2024-18-L

Sanction:            $2,000 fine

Effective Date:  5-22-26

RICO alleges that in his Renewal Application for Psychologist License dated June 17, 2022, Respondent did not disclose the Florida Disciplinary Decision issued on February 18, 2021. RICO further alleges that Respondent failed to timely report in writing to the Hawaiʻi Board, both the Vermont Disciplinary Decision 2021 and Vermont Disciplinary Decision 2024, within 30 days after the disciplinary decisions were issued by the Vermont Boad, in potential violation of HRS §§ 436B-19(5), 436B-19(15), 465-13(a)(7), and 465-13(a)(19). (Board approved Settlement Agreement.)

Copies of the decisions are available online at: http://cca.hawaii.gov/oah/oah_decisions/

BusinessCheck is an online platform designed to serve as a comprehensive resource for researching licensed professionals. This tool empowers users to verify licenses, review complaint histories and discover when a business was established, all in one place. Please visit businesscheck.hawaii.gov to verify a professional’s license status, confirming their qualifications, compliance with regulations and accountability to a governing body.

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Media Contact:
William Nhieu
Communications Officer
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, State of Hawai‘i
Phone: 808-586-7582
Email: [email protected]

STATE OF HAWAIʻI

KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI 

JOSH GREEN, M.D.

GOVERNOR

KE KIAʻĀINA 

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS

KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

NADINE Y. ANDO

DIRECTOR

KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

PROFESSIONAL AND VOCATIONAL LICENSING DIVISION 

CINDY A. MATSUSHITA

LICENSING ADMINISTRATOR

DCCA EXPANDS PATHWAY FOR MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS AHEAD OF JULY 1 LAUNCH

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 19, 2026

HONOLULU — The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) is preparing for the July 1 implementation of Act 93 (2024), which creates new provisional licenses for associate psychologists, associate marriage and family therapists, and associate mental health counselors. The law is intended to reduce barriers for emerging professionals, strengthen Hawaiʻi’s mental health workforce, and improve access to care statewide. Applications opened June 1, and DCCA has dedicated additional staff and resources to process applications as quickly as possible. Current supervisors are only required to complete supervision verification forms for applicants.

Licensure requirements differ by profession. Individuals are encouraged to review the category below that applies to them.

Marriage and Family Therapists

Under HRS §451J-5, licensure is required only for individuals who use, or represent themselves under, the title “marriage and family therapist,” “licensed marriage and family therapist,” “associate marriage and family therapist,” or “licensed associate marriage and family therapist.” The licensure requirement is tied to use of these titles, not to the underlying work performed.

Licensure is not required for (HRS §451J-6):

• Individuals whose work overlaps with the practice of marriage and family therapy, provided they do not use the protected titles listed above.
• Students completing a supervised practicum as part of an accredited graduate program, provided they are identified by an appropriate trainee title.
• Members of other licensed professions (such as social work, psychology, nursing, or medicine) providing services consistent with their own profession’s standards, provided they do not use the protected MFT titles.

Mental Health Counselors

Under HRS §453D-5, licensure is required for any individual who either uses a protected title — “licensed mental health counselor,” “mental health counselor,” “licensed associate mental health counselor,” or “associate mental health counselor” — or who engages in the practice of mental health counseling.

Licensure is not required for (HRS §453D-6):

• Individuals whose work overlaps with the practice of mental health counseling, provided they do not use, or imply that they hold, a protected title or describe their services as “mental health counseling.”
• Members of the clergy acting within their religious role, provided they do not use a protected title or describe their services as mental health counseling.
• Students completing a supervised practicum as part of an accredited program, identified by an appropriate trainee title.
• Government employees (federal, state, or county) acting in a counseling capacity within their government role.
• Individuals obtaining supervised clinical experience toward licensure as a psychologist, social worker, marriage and family therapist, or other licensed profession, provided their title indicates trainee or intern status.

Psychologists

Under HRS §465-2, licensure is required for any individual who represents themselves as a “psychologist” or “associate psychologist,” or who engages in the practice of psychology.

Licensure is not required for (under HRS §465-3) the following persons (as are pertinent)

• College or university faculty teaching, lecturing, or conducting research in psychology, within the scope of their academic employment.
• Persons working under the direction of a licensed psychologist who perform professional services defined as the practice of psychology, provided they do not call themselves a psychologist or associate psychologist or imply they are licensed to practice psychology.
• Government employees in school psychologist, psychological examiner, or non-diagnostic/non-treatment positions, while acting within that government role.
• Students enrolled in a psychology training program, provided they do not represent themselves as a psychologist or associate psychologist.
• Members of other licensed professions, mental health professions not requiring licensure, or the clergy, providing services within their own scope of practice or role, provided they do not represent themselves as a psychologist or associate psychologist.
• Certain U.S. Department of Defense psychologists providing telehealth services to neighbor island beneficiaries under specified conditions.

Individuals uncertain whether their role, title, or services require licensure are encouraged to contact PVL directly for guidance.

Application materials and program-specific information are available on the respective board and program pages at https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl. For general inquiries, contact the Professional and Vocational Licensing Division at 1-844-808-3222 ext. 1.

Supervision Verification

Regarding post-master’s and post-doctoral supervision verification, only the applicant’s current supervisor is required to complete the supervision verification form. Applicants may voluntarily provide a list of former supervisors but are not required to do so.

Under the law, associate-level practitioners must practice under the clinical supervision of a licensed professional in good standing with the Department:

• Associate marriage and family therapists practice under a licensed marriage and family therapist or other licensed mental health professional in good standing (HRS §451J-7.2).
• Associate mental health counselors practice under a licensed clinical supervisor in good standing (HRS §453D-7.5).
• Associate psychologists practice under the direct supervision of a supervising psychologist who holds a current, active, and unencumbered license, and who must notify the licensing board within ten days of the termination or completion of supervision (HRS §465-7.2).

Applicants are encouraged to check the website regularly for updates, application materials and a frequently asked questions (FAQ) document.

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Media Contact:
William Nhieu
Communications Officer
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, State of Hawai‘i
Phone: 808-586-7582
Email: [email protected]

STATE OF HAWAIʻI

KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI 

JOSH GREEN, M.D.

GOVERNOR

KE KIAʻĀINA

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS

KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

NADINE Y. ANDO

DIRECTOR

KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

OFFICE OF CONSUMER PROTECTION

MANA MORIARTY

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 

HAWAIʻI OFFICE OF CONSUMER PROTECTION OPPOSES FEDERAL SECURE DATA ACT LEGISLATION

Federal Legislation Would Weaken and Preempt Strong State Privacy Protections

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 15, 2026

HONOLULU — The Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs’ Office of Consumer Protection (OCP)  joined a coalition of 15 attorneys general and state agencies in opposing the Securing and Establishing Consumer Uniform Rights and Enforcement over Data Act (SECURE Data Act), a proposed federal data privacy bill.

The SECURE Act would impose a federal ceiling on privacy protections, limiting the Hawaiʻi Legislature’s ability to address new technologies that impact consumer privacy and to enact stronger laws to protect Hawaiʻi consumers as privacy risks evolve.

In its letter, the coalition calls on Congress to reject the SECURE Data Act and to respect additional privacy protections states already grant their residents or would provide in future state-level legislation.

“The SECURE Data Act would effectively freeze privacy protections at the federal level and prevent Hawaiʻi from adopting stronger safeguards in the future,” said Mana Moriarty, executive director of OCP. “States need the flexibility to respond to new technologies and emerging privacy risks to ensure consumers remain protected.”

Comprehensive state privacy laws have set minimum data privacy standards, including heightened protections for minors and sensitive consumer data, limits on how data may be used and retained, and the ability for consumers to stop the sale of their data via a universal opt-out preference signal. The SECURE Data Act would wipe out these meaningful protections, making it harder for consumers to exercise their rights, give businesses more discretion on how to use and retain their data, and significantly limit enforcement remedies.

In the letter, the coalition argues that the bill moves privacy rights in the wrong direction, leaving consumers worse off and with fewer protections. Any federal privacy framework must leave room for states to legislate responsively to changes in technology and data collection practices, as states are better equipped to address the unique needs of their residents and quickly adjust to the challenges presented by technological innovation.

In sending the letter, the Hawaiʻi Office of Consumer Protection joins the attorneys general of California, Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, Oregon, Vermont, Virginia and Washington, as well as the California Privacy Protection Agency.

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The Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) is a division of the Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. OCP promotes fair and honest business practices by investigating alleged violations of consumer protection laws, by taking legal action to stop unfair or deceptive practices in the marketplace and by educating the consumer public and businesses regarding their respective rights and obligations.

Media Contact:
William Nhieu
Communications Officer
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, State of Hawaiʻi
Phone: 808-586-7582
Email: [email protected]

STATE OF HAWAIʻI

KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI 

JOSH GREEN, M.D.

GOVERNOR

KE KIAʻĀINA 

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS

KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

NADINE Y. ANDO

DIRECTOR

KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

PROFESSIONAL AND VOCATIONAL LICENSING DIVISION 

CINDY A. MATSUSHITA

LICENSING ADMINISTRATOR

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR NEW MENTAL HEALTH PROVISIONAL LICENSES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 2, 2026

HONOLULU — Individuals seeking provisional licensure as associate psychologists, marriage and family therapists, or mental health counselors, may begin submitting applications, to be accepted by the Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Professional and Vocational Licensing Division. The new provisional licenses take effect July 1, 2026.

Established under Act 93, Session Laws of Hawaiʻi 2024, the provisional licenses allow qualified associate-level practitioners to practice under required clinical supervision and seek insurance reimbursement while working toward full licensure. Prior to provisional licenses, associate-level practitioners faced significant barriers to reimbursement, limiting their ability to build sustainable practices and serve patients in need.

The new license categories are intended to expand access to mental health services across the state, while maintaining regulatory oversight and public protection.

Eligible practitioners include associate psychologists, associate marriage and family therapists and associate mental health counselors. Applicants must meet applicable educational and supervised experience requirements for their respective license category. Application materials and program-specific information are available on the respective board and program pages at https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl.

Applicants are encouraged to check the website regularly for updates, application materials and a frequently asked questions (FAQ) document. DCCA’s early release of application information reflects the department’s continued commitment to supporting licensees and streamlining licensing operations.

For general inquiries, contact the Professional and Vocational Licensing Division at 1-844-808-3222 ext. 1.

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Media Contact:
William Nhieu
Communications Officer
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, State of Hawai‘i
Phone: 808-586-7582
Email: [email protected]

 

STATE OF HAWAIʻI
KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS
KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

NADINE Y. ANDO
DIRECTOR
KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

SCOTT K. SAIKI
INSURANCE COMMISSIONER

HAWAIʻI CELEBRATES 40 YEARS AS GLOBAL LEADER IN CAPTIVE INSURANCE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 26, 2026

HONOLULU — Hawaiʻi proudly marks 40 years of leadership in the captive insurance industry, celebrating a legacy of innovation, stability and partnership that has positioned the state as one of the world’s premier captive jurisdictions.

Since establishing its captive insurance statutes in 1986, Hawaiʻi has built a strong and respected foundation in the industry. Today, the state is home to 274 active captive insurance companies and wrote over $18 billion in premiums last year. The captive insurance industry annually invests $2.7 billion through Hawaiʻi’s financial institutions and generates more than $46.3 million in direct local expenditures.

To commemorate the 40th anniversary of captive insurance in Hawaiʻi, a reception at the Bishop Museum on Oʻahu, brought together captive owners, legislators, representatives from the Hawaiʻi Captive Insurance Council and business leaders from local, national and international companies and organizations. The event highlighted the strong partnerships that have contributed to Hawaiʻi’s longevity.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we also look to the future,” said Governor Josh Green. “Hawaiʻi is dedicated to supporting the captive insurance industry for many years to come.”

“Hawaiʻi’s success in the captive insurance sector is rooted in a commitment to collaboration, sound regulation and sustained growth,” added Captive Insurance Administrator and Deputy Commissioner Andrew Kurata. “Over the past four decades, we have worked closely with industry partners to create a business-friendly environment that supports both innovation and accountability.”

Forty years of experience has enabled Hawaiʻi to cultivate a diverse and well-established infrastructure that allows captive insurance companies to thrive. The state’s approach balances responsiveness to industry needs with a strong regulatory framework designed to ensure financial security and solvency. As a recent example, legislation was just passed to pilot an innovative new risk-based supervisory model. Hawaiʻi is also one of the few jurisdictions with a full-time, 16-member team dedicated to serving the captive industry.

For more information about Hawaiʻi’s captive insurance program, please visit cca.hawaii.gov/ins/captive-insurance/.

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About the Hawaiʻi Insurance Division

The Hawaiʻi Insurance Division regulates the Hawaiʻi insurance industry, issues licenses; examines the fiscal condition of Hawaiʻi-based companies; reviews rate and policy filings and investigates insurance-related complaints.

The Captive Insurance Branch was established to provide dedicated resources to assist the Insurance Commissioner with monitoring, regulation and development of captive insurance companies in Hawaiʻi.

Media Contact:
William Nhieu
Communications Officer
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, State of Hawaiʻi
Phone: 808-586-7582
Email: [email protected]

 

STATE OF HAWAIʻI
KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS
KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

NADINE Y. ANDO
DIRECTOR
KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

PROFESSIONAL AND VOCATIONAL LICENSING
CINDY A. MATSUSHITA
LICENSING ADMINISTRATOR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HONOLULU — The State of Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) is warning the public about phone scammers impersonating state officials and government agencies to target medical professionals. These scammers make false threats of investigations in an attempt to obtain sensitive personal information.

Reports have surfaced of individuals pretending to be government officials contacting licensees, falsely claiming an investigation is being conducted into their professional license. Scammers have been impersonating state and federal officials to include the Drug Enforcement Administration, Hawaiʻi Medical Board, and respective states’ Departments of Health and Human Services.

Recent incidents have involved dental and medical doctor licensees. Other medical professionals, including nurses, pharmacists and others, have often and may continue to be targeted.

The scammers may request various personal information and in some cases, even use Caller ID spoofing to make it appear as though the call is coming from a legitimate government agency, to increase the illusion of credibility for the scam.

Within the state of Hawaiʻi, the DCCA Regulated Industries Complaints Office (RICO) is the authority to conduct independent investigations into licensees. RICO’s official communications are sent on letterhead and include contact information for RICO offices. RICO does not ask for sensitive personal information over the phone, or attempt to solicit wire transfers — and RICO cannot take action against a licensee.

Only the 52 licensing boards, commissions and programs that are affiliated with the Professional and Vocational Licensing (PVL) division of the DCCA can discipline the licensee, after appropriate notification and investigation.

The 52 boards, commissions and programs do not, however, conduct investigations. Additionally, states’ Departments of Health and Human Services do not have the authority to suspend or revoke professional or vocational licenses, nor initiate an investigation into a Hawaiʻi professional’s license

Here are some tips to consider when determining whether calls and texts that may be scams

• BE wary and vigilant of callers posing as law enforcement or government agencies, who specifically ask you to pay by gift card, money sharing app, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency. The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, law enforcement and other government agencies will not call to solicit money or threaten arrest.

• NEVER give out personal identifying information such as account numbers, social security numbers or birthdates in response to unexpected calls/if you did not initiate the call/place the order.

• If you SUSPECT fraudulent activity, immediately hang up and call the phone number on your account statement or government agency website or vendor to verify the authenticity.

if you have received any calls similar to what has been described above or are seeking to verify contact from DCCA, please call the Professional and Vocational Licensing Division at 1-844-808-3222 (DCCA). A list of programs and contact information is available at https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/

Media Contact:
William Nhieu
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
Phone: 808-586-7582
Email: [email protected]

STATE OF HAWAIʻI
KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS
KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

NADINE Y. ANDO
DIRECTOR
KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

SCOTT K. SAIKI
INSURANCE COMMISSIONER

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 21, 2026

HONOLULU — With more severe weather in the forecast, the Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) Insurance Division encourages residents to know what their policies cover so they can efficiently recover any losses after the storm passes.

Flood insurance is separate from homeowners insurance and generally not required unless the property is in a designated high-risk flood zone. As we saw with the last storm, however, flooding can occur outside of these areas, which is why all homeowners and renters are strongly encouraged to consider flood coverage.

A standard flood insurance policy normally helps cover physical damage caused by rising water, such as damage to the structure of the home (including foundation, walls, electrical and plumbing systems) and certain essential contents like appliances and personal belongings. However, coverage is subject to policy limits and exclusions, so items like landscaping, temporary housing costs and some high-value personal property may be limited or not covered.

For those who have experienced flood damage but do not carry flood insurance, individuals may look to federal disaster assistance programs, if a disaster declaration is made, or explore available local relief resources. More information on flood insurance is available at https://www.floodsmart.gov/.

If you do carry flood insurance and need to report damage to your home or vehicle, contact your insurance company or agent right away. Ask for your claim number and confirm any deadlines for filing or submitting documentation. You will need to take clear photos or videos of any damage and if safe, keep damaged items until the insurance adjuster has seen them. Avoid making permanent repairs until your insurer has approved them and keep receipts for all expenses including temporary repairs, hotel stays, meals and other related costs.

To help residents navigate the claims process, the Hawaiʻi Insurance Division has developed a Post-Disaster Insurance Claims Guide and instructional video on how to file an insurance claim. Consumers may also contact the Hawaiʻi Insurance Division at 1-844-808-DCCA (3222) or visit http://cca.hawaii.gov/ins for additional claim-filing tips, disaster recovery resources and assistance with insurance-related concerns.

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The Hawaiʻi Insurance Division regulates the Hawaiʻi insurance industry, issues licenses; examines the fiscal condition of Hawaiʻi-based companies; reviews rate and policy filings and investigates insurance-related complaints.

Media Contact:
William Nhieu
Communications Officer
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, State of Hawaii
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 808-586-7582

STATE OF HAWAIʻI
KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS
KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

NADINE Y. ANDO
DIRECTOR KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

SCOTT K. SAIKI
INSURANCE COMMISSIONER

PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY BEFORE THE KONA STORM
Consumers Urged to Prepare their Property and Review Insurance Coverage

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 11, 2026

HONOLULU — Ahead of a powerful Kona storm expected to bring heavy rain and flooding this week, the Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) Insurance Division is encouraging residents to review their insurance policies and take steps now, that can make the recovery and insurance claims process easier after the storm passes.

One of the most important steps homeowners, renters and condominium unit owners can take is to review their insurance policies to understand what is covered and what is not. Residents should also keep copies of their property, flood and auto insurance policies in a waterproof container, or stored securely in the cloud so they can be easily accessed if a claim must be filed.

Consumers are also encouraged to create or update a home inventory before the storm arrives. Taking photos or videos of each room and documenting furniture, appliances, electronics and valuables can help speed up the claims process. Receipts, serial numbers and other records for high-value items should also be saved whenever possible.

Residents should also be aware that most standard homeowners, condominium unit-owners and renters insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is available separately through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which generally requires a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect. To learn more, visit floodsmart.gov or talk with your insurance agent.

“This is not our first storm of the year and it won’t be the last. Preparing now will set you up for the future,” said Insurance Commissioner Scott K. Saiki. “And as always, if you have any questions about your policy or settlement, our office is here to help.”

The Hawaiʻi Insurance Division provides several online resources to help consumers better understand their insurance coverage, including My Insurance Doesn’t Cover What? and Annual Review of Your Insurance Policies.

For more information or additional assistance, contact the DCCA Insurance Division at 1-844-808-DCCA (3222) or visit http://cca.hawaii.gov/ins.

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The Hawaiʻi Insurance Division regulates the Hawaiʻi insurance industry, issues licenses; examines the fiscal condition of Hawaiʻi-based companies; reviews rate and policy filings and investigates insurance-related complaints

Media Contact:
William Nhieu
Communications Officer
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, State of Hawaiʻi
Phone: 808-586-7582
Email: [email protected]

STATE OF HAWAIʻI
KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS
KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

NADINE Y. ANDO
DIRECTOR KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HONOLULU — The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) commemorated National Consumer Protection Week by hosting its 21st Consumer Protection Week Fair today at the historic Hawai‘i State Capitol. This significant event, dedicated to raising awareness about consumer rights and countering frauds and scams, served as an opportunity to empower and educate the public.

Representatives provided insightful tips and guidance on consumer best practices and assisted attendees with questions regarding tax filings, financial assistance programs, kūpuna care and more.

DCCA also highlighted the comprehensive BusinessCheck (http://businesscheck.hawaii.gov) public information campaign. BusinessCheck serves as a one-stop resource for information on businesses, individuals and entities operating in the state. This online tool provides details on licensed contractors, electricians, plumbers and other professionals, including license status, classifications, proof of insurance and records of complaints.

Attendees had the chance to network with industry experts, fostering meaningful connections and discussions on practical solutions for protecting consumer rights. DCCA remains committed to advancing consumer rights and the turnout at the NCPW Fair underscores the importance of fostering a more informed and resilient community.

“Mahalo to the government agencies, consumer protection groups and organizations whose collaboration made this year’s fair a great success,” said DCCA Director Nadine Ando.

Each year, DCCA receives hundreds of tips and complaints about unlicensed activity, as well as consumer complaints alleging unfair or deceptive business practices. Events like the NCPW Fair provide a valuable opportunity to educate the public on consumer safety.

Organizations that participated in the National Consumer Protection Week Fair included

• AARP
• American Red Cross
• Blood Bank of Hawai‘i
• Better Business Bureau
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Elderly Affairs Division – City and County of Honolulu
• Tax Relief Section – City and County of Honolulu
• Real Property Assessment Division – City and County of Honolulu
• Executive Office on Aging – Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP)
• Hawai‘i Credit Union League
• Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA)
• Hawai‘i HomeOwnership Center
• Hawai‘i Pacific University
• Hawai‘i State Health Insurance Assistance Program (Hawai‘i SHIP)
• Hawaiian Electric Co.
• HMSA
• IRS – Taxpayer Advocate Service
• Social Security Administration
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program – State of Hawai‘i
• 911 Board – State of Hawai‘i
• Department of Taxation – State of Hawai‘i
• Public Utilities Commission – State of Hawai‘i
• Mediation Center of the Pacific
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
• Various divisions from the state of Hawai‘i Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA)

Media Contact:
William Nhieu
Communications Officer
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 808-586-7582

STATE OF HAWAIʻI
KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI
JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS

KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

NADINE Y. ANDO
DIRECTOR
KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

DCCA LAUNCHES REDESIGNED WEBSITE TO ENHANCE ACCESS AND ACCESSIBILITY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 27, 2026

HONOLULU — The state of Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) announces the launch of its redesigned website, featuring a new, modern design and an intuitive, user-friendly interface. The upgraded site makes it easier for users to access vital resources, navigate services and engage with the department online, underscoring DCCA’s ongoing commitment to increase accessibility in delivery of its services to the public.

Driven by a dedication to providing a more seamless browsing experience, the new site features a streamlined, function-driven layout, improved navigation tools and an AI-assisted customer support chatbot, ensuring visitors can easily find the information they need.

“Our goal with this redesign is to improve access to DCCA’s many services by creating a more intuitive, user-friendly platform that prioritizes the resources the public needs most,” said Deputy Director Dean Hazama.

This initiative follows the December 2025 launch of the department’s new centralized toll-free phone number and call center, with both efforts being part of the department’s broader modernization initiative to streamline the process for public interactions with DCCA.

For more information about DCCA and to explore the redesigned website, please visit https://cca.hawaii.gov.

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Media Contact:

William Nhieu

Communications Officer

Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, State of Hawai‘i

Phone: 808-586-7582

Email: [email protected]