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State to answer newspapers’
request for $21 million bond

Star-Bulletin staff

State attorneys say they will take appropriate action after reviewing a motion by the owners of Honolulu's two daily newspapers asking the state to post a $21 million bond to cover possible losses due to the delay in closing the Honolulu Star-Bulletin.

The state has 11 days to respond to the motion, filed yesterday in federal court.

U.S. District Judge Alan C. Kay scheduled a March 28 hearing date.

The newspaper owners say a $10,000 bond the state posted when the court granted a preliminary injunction blocking the closure is insufficient to cover costs and damages suffered if they ultimately prevail.

Trial is set for Sept. 19 on the state's suit that alleges anti-trust laws were violated by an agreement to end a joint operating agreement between the Honolulu Advertiser and the Star-Bulletin, and close the Star-Bulletin for a $26.5 million payment.

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Bulletin closing archive