Posted: May 08, 2012 8:35 PM PDT Updated: May 08, 2012 9:53 PM PDT
By Tim Sakahara

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) -

After layoffs and hiring freezes the state is close to hiring again. Lawmakers found money for nearly 100 state jobs this legislative session. Many will go to depleted departments.

Right now there are only two people inspecting nearly 1,800 taxi cab meters to make sure riders aren't getting ripped off. Those same two guys are also responsible for checking every gas pump and scale in the state to make sure you get what you paid for. It's a heavy burden but soon there will be three new inspectors and a manager to help lighten the load.

"This is a big thing for everyone," said Jeri Kahana, Acting Administrator for Quality Assurance Division.

The Department of Agriculture lost 42 percent of its staff in 2009 cuts but will be getting several positions back including two food safety inspectors, nine plant quarantine inspectors for Kahului Airport, four dog handlers to sniff cargo and 20 inspectors to prevent invasive species and other banned items from coming ashore.

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