BUSINESS BRIEFS
HMSA gets OK to raise rates

By Advertiser Staff and News Services

The state Insurance Division has approved Hawaii Medical Service Association's request to increase health plan rates for 75 businesses that employ more than 100 workers. The hike, which applies to its Preferred Provider Plan, ranges from 5.2 percent to 10.9 percent. The rates are effective on July 1. The state also approved a 9.5 percent increase for Hawaii Management Alliance Association's PPO plan.

Small-business loans available

Hawai'i's small businesses are eligible for federal disaster relief loans offered by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Businesses that suffered from last year's drought conditions, other than farmers and ranchers, can qualify for the low-interest loans and receive up to $1.5 million. The deadline to apply is Nov. 22. For details call (800) 488-5323.

Drop off taxes at curb April 20

The state Department of Taxation will offer last-minute curbside tax drop-off April 20 from 5 p.m. to midnight.

Volunteers will be collecting state tax returns in front of the Princess Ruth Keeliokalani Building at 830 Punchbowl St. Tax returns don't need to be in envelopes, but all pages and attachments should be stapled together.

Lease talks may be extended

Bankrupt Hawaiian Airlines and Boeing Capital Corp. asked the bankruptcy court for a ninth extension — until May 15 — to renegotiate aircraft lease terms. The current lease agreement expires Thursday.

Hawaiian wants to restructure agreements for 14 planes it leases from Boeing. Hawaiian filed for Chapter 11 reorganization in March 2003.

Homebuyers gain $5,000

Four Hawai'i families each received $5,000 grants from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Seattle for the purchase of their first homes.

The grants, offered by Hawaii National Bank, help low-income families become first-time homeowners.