(AP) — The agency that operates Hawaiʻi’s state parks is asking lawmakers for more money to boost maintenance and staffing. Hawaii Public Radio reports the state Department of Land and Natural Resources has requested $12 million in special funds for its State Parks division next fiscal year. The division received $3 million in special funds during the current fiscal year. The department plans to use the additional funds for maintenance, repairs and additional staffing.  It currently has a little over 100 employees to manage 52 state parks across five islands. Officials say state park agencies in states with fewer tourists have more employees.

© copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved