Hawaii’s Deadly Oversight: How State Neglect Leaves Residents Vulnerable to Ocean Drownings

In the sun-drenched paradise of Hawaii, a tragedy unfolds repeatedly with little state intervention: drownings that could have been prevented. The death of 15-year-old Lily Able at Kohanaiki Beach on the Big Island is a heartbreaking example of how state neglect and fragmented responsibility place the burden squarely on counties and grieving families. Why Has Hawaii Allowed Its Drowning Rate to Soar? Hawaii ranks second highest in resident drownings nationwide, yet there is no cohesive statewide strategy to combat this crisis. Instead, local counties each fend for themselves amid stark disparities in resources and safety measures. Why? Because the state...