A state rule that kept beetle-carrying plants and soil off Molokai has lapsed, which is bad news for the island's palms and food crops but good news for the businesses that were shut out.

• Molokai is one of the last Hawaii islands free of the coconut rhinoceros beetle, and the ban on shipping in potted plants, mulch, and soil ended.
• Residents fear even one infested shipment could bring the pest in for good.
• The beetle kills coconut palms and also attacks ulu, banana, and ko — crops tied to food, medicine, and ceremony.
• Businesses like Stargazer Industries say they already fumigate and inspect shipments and want a plan that lets them sell there again.

Outlook: The agriculture department meets Monday to consider bringing the rule back, and says it will keep inspecting shipments in the meantime.